Abstract
Frequent zoonotic transmission of hepatitis E virus (HEV) has been suspected, but data supporting the animal origin of autochthonous cases are still sparse. We assessed the genetic identity of HEV strains found in humans and swine during an 18-month period in France. HEV sequences identified in patients with autochthonous hepatitis E infection (n = 106) were compared with sequences amplified from swine livers collected in slaughterhouses (n = 43). Phylogenetic analysis showed the same proportions of subtypes 3f (73.8%), 3c (13.4%), and 3e (4.7%) in human and swine populations. Furthermore, similarity of >99% was found between HEV sequences of human and swine origins. These results indicate that consumption of some pork products, such as raw liver, is a major source of exposure for autochthonous HEV infection.
Highlights
Medscape, LLC designates this Journal-based CME activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)TM
HEV Patients Persons who had autochthonous hepatitis E virus infection during May 2008–November 2009 and had no travel history outside France were included in the study
Discussion zoonotic transmission of hepatitis E virus from swine to human has been well accepted, little data are available on HEV sequences circulating in human and swine populations within a country during a restricted period
Summary
LLC designates this Journal-based CME activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)TM. All other clinicians completing this activity will be issued a certificate of participation. To participate in this journal CME activity: [1] review the learning objectives and author disclosures; [2] study the education content; [3] take the post-test with a 70% minimum passing score and complete the evaluation at www.medscape.org/journal/eid; [4] view/print certificate. Merritt has disclosed no relevant financial relationships. CME Author Laurie Barclay, MD, freelance writer and reviewer, Medscape, LLC. Disclosure: Laurie Barclay, MD, has disclosed no relevant financial relationships
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