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Hepatitis B outbreak among chimpanzees at the London Zoo
Lancet (London, England)
|September 23, 1978
Summary
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) was found in 5 of 9 chimpanzees at London Zoo, with potential perinatal transmission. Staff safety measures prevented HBV infection in humans.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Primate Health
- Hepatitis B Research
Background:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) poses a zoonotic risk.
- Understanding HBV reservoirs in non-human primates is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate Hepatitis B virus carriage in chimpanzees at London Zoo.
- To assess potential transmission routes and risks to zoo staff.
Main Methods:
- Serological testing for HBV surface antigen and antibodies in chimpanzees and other primates.
- Surveillance of zoo staff for seroconversion.
- Therapeutic interventions using interferon and ribavirin.
Main Results:
- Five of nine chimpanzees were high-titer HBV carriers; four had antibodies.
- No HBV surface antigen detected in gorillas, orang-utans, or gibbons.
- Perinatal transmission suspected in three carrier chimpanzees born at the zoo.
- No staff seroconversion occurred over two years with safety protocols and immunoglobulin prophylaxis.
- Antiviral treatments showed only temporary effects in carrier chimpanzees.
Conclusions:
- Chimpanzees can act as a reservoir for Hepatitis B virus.
- Strict safety measures effectively protected zoo staff from HBV infection.
- Current antiviral treatments are not curative for chronic HBV carriage in chimpanzees.
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