Abstract
Human parvovirus 4 infections are primarily associated with parenteral exposure in western countries. By ELISA, we demonstrate frequent seropositivity for antibody to parvovirus 4 viral protein 2 among adult populations throughout sub-Saharan Africa (Burkina Faso, 37%; Cameroon, 25%; Democratic Republic of the Congo, 35%; South Africa, 20%), which implies existence of alternative transmission routes.
Highlights
There is no evidence of parvovirus 4 (PARV4) infection in nonpotentially exposed persons in Western countries, populations in subSaharan Africa, in Central Africa, show high rates of exposure that cannot plausibly be accounted for by parenteral exposure
The highest rate of seropositivity was observed among blood donors in Burkina Faso and Democratic Republic of the Congo who were uniformly negative for hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies, as well as for HIV-1 antibodies, by third-generation screening
HCV infections are a frequent correlate of multiple blood transfusions and use of unsterilized needles in medical treatment or vaccination, as well as injection drug use
Summary
Citation for published version: Sharp, CP, Vermeulen, M, Nebie, Y, Djoko, CF, Le Breton, M, Tamoufe, U, Rimoin, AW, Kayembe, PK, Carr, JK, Servant-Delmas, A, Laperche, S, Harrison, GLA, Pybus, OG, Delwart, E, Wolfe, ND, Saville, A, Lefrere, J-J & Simmonds, P 2010, 'Changing epidemiology of human parvovirus 4 infection in sub-Saharan Africa', Emerging Infectious Diseases, vol 16, no.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
