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A Cell Culture Model for Producing High Titer Hepatitis E Virus Stocks
Published on: June 26, 2020
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In Mayotte French department, hepatitis A is still endemic
Lina Mouna1,2, J Demortier3, S Olivier3
1Virology Department, WHO Rubella National Reference Laboratory, Reference Laboratory for Perinatal Viral Infections, Department of Biology Genetics, Paul Brousse Hospital, Paris Saclay University Hospital, APHP, Villejuif, France.
Summary
Hepatitis A remains common in Mayotte, with a unique local strain identified. Enhanced hygiene and sanitation are vital for controlling Hepatitis A virus (HAV) spread, alongside potential vaccination strategies.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is endemic in Mayotte, disproportionately affecting children.
- Transmission occurs primarily through the fecal-oral route, necessitating an understanding of local epidemiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess Hepatitis A virus (HAV) epidemiology in Mayotte from 2017-2019.
- To identify circulating HAV strains to inform prevention strategies.
Main Methods:
- Testing 2434 patients for Hepatitis A virus immunoglobulin M (HAV-IgM) between November 2017 and June 2019.
- Defining acute HAV infection using HAV-IgM levels and clinical symptoms.
- Performing genotyping via reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and phylogenetic analysis.
Main Results:
- 50 out of 125 positive cases met acute infection criteria, with a median age of 13 years.
- Phylogenetic analysis revealed genotype IIIA, a distinct 'Mahorese strain', circulating in Mayotte.
- A minority of cases were associated with travel to Madagascar and Pakistan.
Conclusions:
- Mayotte exhibits persistent high endemicity of Hepatitis A virus (HAV), characterized by a unique local strain.
- Prioritizing improved sanitation and hygiene is crucial for HAV control.
- While universal vaccination may offer benefits, fundamental hygiene measures remain paramount.
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