Hepatitis E: the current state of play

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Hepatology
• Public Health

Background:

• Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a significant global cause of acute hepatitis.
• HEV genotypes 1 and 2 are human pathogens causing epidemics via fecal-oral transmission.
• HEV genotypes 3 and 4 are zoonotic, primarily porcine, transmitted through foodborne routes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the increasing prevalence of HEV, particularly genotype 3, in developed countries like the UK.
• To discuss the transmission routes, including foodborne zoonosis and potential transfusion transmission.
• To address the implications of persistent HEV infection in immunosuppressed individuals.

Main Methods:

• Review of epidemiological data on HEV prevalence in the UK.
• Analysis of transmission pathways, including consumption of undercooked meat.
• Examination of HEV persistence and complications in immunocompromised patients.

Main Results:

• Genotype 3 HEV is the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis in the UK, with rising case numbers.
• Most UK infections are acquired domestically, likely from consuming inadequately cooked pork products.
• HEV infection can lead to chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis in immunosuppressed individuals.

Conclusions:

• HEV poses a growing public health challenge in developed nations.
• Food safety measures and awareness regarding undercooked meat consumption are crucial.
• The risk of transfusion-transmitted HEV necessitates consideration for blood donation screening protocols.