The human pegivirus: A new name for an "ancient" virus. Can transfusion medicine come up with something new?

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Human pegivirus (HPgV), previously known as GB virus C/hepatitis G virus, is a Flaviviridae family member.
• HPgV infection is globally prevalent, with transmission likely occurring through blood products.
• Currently, no direct causal link between HPgV and human diseases has been established.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on HPgV.
• To focus on HPgV prevalence in blood donors.
• To assess the potential threat of HPgV to transfusion safety.

Main Methods:

• This study is a narrative review.
• Information was gathered from existing literature on HPgV.
• The review synthesizes data on prevalence and transfusion safety implications.

Main Results:

• HPgV infection is widespread globally.
• Blood products are a likely route of HPgV transmission.
• No definitive human diseases are currently linked to HPgV.

Conclusions:

• Further research is needed to understand the Pegivirus genus.
• HPgV's prevalence in blood donors warrants attention for transfusion safety.
• The potential impact of HPgV on public health requires ongoing evaluation.