Clinical Report: From Farm to Clinic: Tracking Hepatitis E

Overview

This report discusses the under-recognized prevalence of Hepatitis E virus (HEV) in Europe, emphasizing the importance of a One Health approach for effective surveillance and diagnostics. Key findings reveal significant zoonotic transmission through food and environmental sources, highlighting the need for improved alignment of human, veterinary, and environmental health systems.

Background

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a significant global health concern, particularly in Europe where zoonotic transmission is prevalent. Understanding HEV epidemiology is crucial for public health, as it can lead to severe outcomes, especially in immunocompromised individuals. The One Health approach integrates human, animal, and environmental health, which is essential for addressing the complexities of HEV transmission.

Data Highlights

No numerical data provided in the source material.

Key Findings

• HEV antibody prevalence among blood donors in Sweden is approximately 17%.
• Main reservoirs of HEV genotype 3 in Europe include domestic pigs and wild boars.
• HEV is primarily transmitted through food, particularly raw or undercooked pork and wild boar meat.
• Environmental sources, such as wastewater, show high levels of HEV, although direct transmission risk from water is low.
• Surveillance systems for HEV in Europe are poorly aligned across human, veterinary, and environmental sectors.
• Different HEV genotypes are associated with distinct transmission routes and clinical risks, with genotype 3 being the most common cause of chronic infection in immunocompromised patients.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should be aware of the significant underreporting of HEV cases and the potential for zoonotic transmission through food sources. Enhanced surveillance and a One Health approach are critical for managing HEV risks, particularly in high-risk populations such as immunocompromised individuals.

Conclusion

A comprehensive understanding of HEV transmission dynamics is essential for effective public health interventions. Strengthening surveillance systems and adopting a One Health perspective can significantly improve HEV management in Europe.

Related Resources & Content

1. Hao Wang, ESCMID Global 2026 -- From Farm to Clinic: Tracking Hepatitis E
2. The Underreported Transmission of Hepatitis E in India: From Epidemiological Perspectives to Public Health Interventions - A Detailed Review
3. Hepatitis E Virus Infection in Patients With Chronic Liver Diseases: A Latin American Multicenter Study
4. Cultivation Methods for Hepatitis E Virus
5. The Journal of Infectious Diseases — Evaluation of Diagnostic Accuracy and Dynamics of Hepatitis E Viral RNA and IgM Antibody Positivity During a Genotype 1 Outbreak in South Sudan
6. WHO Hepatitis E Fact Sheet
7. Development of a ribavirin dosing regimen in transplant recipients with chronic hepatitis E virus infection
8. Communicable Disease Threats Report - Week 6, 4 - 10 February 2024