Unveiling hepatitis E virus diversity in Sudan's internally displaced populations: a molecular epidemiology approach

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is recognized as a cause of acute viral hepatitis, particularly in low-resource and humanitarian settings, although its burden varies across different populations and geographic areas. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) are at high risk due to inadequate sanitation and contaminated water. This study aimed to characterize the molecular epidemiology and genotypes of HEV among IDPs in Al-Azaza Camp, Blue Nile State, Sudan.

A cross-sectional study was conducted from August to December 2021 during the rainy season. Serum samples from 1,078 participants were screened for anti-HEV IgM and IgG antibodies. A subset of 20 IgM-positive samples was selected for molecular analysis using real-time RT-PCR. Eighteen high-quality RNA-positive samples were sequenced, and genotyping was performed based on the ORF2 region. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted using the HEV Genotyping Tool and Geneious Prime software.

Overall, 75.6% of participants tested positive for IgG antibodies. All sequenced isolates (n = 18) were classified as genotype 1, subtype 1e (HEV-1e), closely related to Paslahepevirus balayani. The isolates clustered with reference strains from Chad and Nigeria, indicating regional circulation and genetic conservation of HEV-1e in sub-Saharan Africa.

Despite the single-site scope and low RNA yield limitations, the study findings align with regional HEV-1e circulation patterns and emphasize the need for sustained surveillance and consideration of cross-border transmission.