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Updated: Mar 18, 2026
A Cell Culture Model for Producing High Titer Hepatitis E Virus Stocks
Published on: June 26, 2020
Outbreak of Viral Hepatitis E in a Regimental Training Centre
A Banerjee1, A K Sahni2, Rajiva3
1Ex DADH HQ 101 Area, c/o 99 APO., Department of PSM, AFMC, Pune.
Background:
An outbreak of viral hepatitis occurred in a regimental centre with 265 cases occurring during a 3 months period.
Methods:
190 serum samples were tested for IgM antibodies against viral hepatitis E by Enzyme Immuno Assay (EIA) and for antibodies against Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B viruses. Epidemiological investigation comprised review of surveillance data, filling up epidemiological case sheet, sanitary survey, inspection of water supplies and bacteriological examination of water for coliforms.
Result:
97.4% of the serum samples were positive for IgM antibodies against Hepatitis E virus. Two leaks were detected in water pipelines, which were passing through contaminated areas around improperly functioning septic tanks and soak pits. The attack rate among recruits being supplied water through leaking pipelines was 11.1% whereas it was 2.89% in those not directly exposed. This difference was statistically significant (p<0.001). Bacteriological examination of water showed a high coliform count.
Conclusion:
The outbreak of viral hepatitis E occurred due to sewage contamination of water pipelines.
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