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Updated: Jun 26, 2026
04:11
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction-Based Detection and Quantification of Hepatitis B Virus DNA
Published on: December 15, 2023
[Hepatitis B virus transmission patterns in the Netherlands, 2004]
F D H Koedijk1, R van Houdt, E L M Op de Coul
1Rijksinstituut voor Volksgezondheid en Milieu, Postbus 1, 3720 BA Bilthoven.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|January 14, 2009
Summary
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) transmission in the Netherlands is primarily through sexual contact, especially among men who have sex with men. Genotype A is the most common, predominantly found in this group.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Genetics
Context:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a significant global health concern.
- Understanding transmission dynamics is crucial for effective public health interventions.
- The Netherlands serves as a specific geographical focus for this study.
Purpose:
- To investigate the transmission patterns of acute hepatitis B virus infections in the Netherlands.
- To identify the predominant HBV genotypes and their associated transmission routes.
- To analyze the phylogenetic characteristics of circulating HBV strains.
Summary:
- A descriptive study analyzed 291 reported acute HBV infections in the Netherlands during 2004.
- Phylogenetic analysis of the HBV S gene identified genotypes A (64%), D (21%), E (5%), F (4%), and B/C (3%).
- Sexual transmission, particularly homosexual/bisexual contact, was the primary route for genotype A, while heterosexual contact was more common for genotype D.
Impact:
- Sexual transmission, especially among men who have sex with men, is the leading risk factor for acute HBV infection in the Netherlands.
- Genotype A is predominant, particularly in homosexual/bisexual men, indicating ongoing transmission within this network.
- Heterosexual transmission, often linked to individuals from endemic areas, contributes to new HBV introductions.
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