Variation in KSHV prevalence between geographically proximate locations in Uganda

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) seroprevalence studies often use varied methodologies, hindering direct comparisons.
• Understanding KSHV transmission dynamics is crucial, especially in endemic regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess and compare KSHV seroprevalence across four distinct Ugandan populations using a standardized laboratory method.
• To identify potential variations in KSHV seropositivity related to demographics and geographic proximity.

Main Methods:

• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was employed to detect IgG antibody levels against K8.1 and ORF73 recombinant proteins.
• Blood samples were collected from four Ugandan cohorts: Entebbe Mother and Baby Study (EMaBS), General Population Cohort (GPC), Lake Victoria Island Intervention Study on Worms and Allergy related Diseases (LaVIISWA), and Good Health for Women Project (GHWP).
• Participant demographics included children (5 years), adult women (15-47 years), and general populations (1-103 years).

Main Results:

• KSHV seropositivity varied significantly across the populations and age groups.
• In 5-year-old children, seroprevalence ranged from 15% (EMaBS) to 54% (LaVIISWA).
• In adult women, seropositivity ranged from 69% (EMaBS) to 90% (GHWP).

Conclusions:

• Significant variations in KSHV seroprevalence exist even among geographically close populations in Uganda.
• The observed differences may be attributed to varying prevalence of cofactors within these communities.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the specific factors driving these prevalence disparities.