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Mussel-associated viral hepatitis, type A: serological confirmation
Abstract:
7 members of a family of 14 developed acute viral hepatitis approximately one month after a family outing. Epidemiological investigation incriminated incompletely cooked mussels (Mytilus edulis) as the vehicle of infection and revealed a statistically significant difference in attack-rates between mussel-ingesters (70%) and non-ingesters (0%) (P=0-035). The aetiological role of hepatitis-A virus, suspected on epidemiological grounds, was serologically confirmed by the demonstration of rises in titres of serum-antibody to hepatitis-A antigen (serologically related to the MS-1 strain of hepatitis-A virus), determined by immune adherence haemagglutination.
Insights
Incompletely cooked mussels caused a hepatitis A outbreak in a family. Seven family members contracted the virus after consuming contaminated seafood, highlighting the risk of undercooked shellfish.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Virology
- Foodborne Illness
Background:
- Acute viral hepatitis outbreaks can be linked to contaminated food sources.
- Shellfish, particularly mussels, are known to accumulate and transmit viruses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the source and etiological agent of an acute viral hepatitis outbreak within a family.
- To confirm the role of hepatitis A virus (HAV) in the observed illness.
Main Methods:
- Epidemiological investigation including case-finding and exposure assessment.
- Statistical analysis of attack rates between consumers and non-consumers of suspect food.
- Serological confirmation of hepatitis A virus infection using immune adherence haemagglutination assay.
Main Results:
- Seven out of 14 family members developed acute viral hepatitis.
- A statistically significant higher attack rate (70%) was observed in individuals who consumed incompletely cooked mussels compared to non-consumers (0%) (P=0.035).
- Serological tests confirmed rising titres of antibodies to hepatitis A virus, related to the MS-1 strain.
Conclusions:
- Incompletely cooked mussels (Mytilus edulis) were identified as the likely vehicle for hepatitis A transmission in this family outbreak.
- The findings underscore the importance of proper cooking of shellfish to prevent viral hepatitis transmission.
- Hepatitis A virus was confirmed as the causative agent through serological evidence.