Transmission of Hepatitis E
Hepatitis E (HEV) is primarily transmitted through fecally contaminated water, particularly in developing areas. It mainly affects humans and is caused by genotypes 1 and 2 of the virus. Epidemics of acute HEV-associated hepatitis occur in these regions, and ongoing infections are often transmitted through contaminated groundwater.
In developing nations, outbreaks of genotypes 3 and 4 are commonly linked to contaminated food, while sporadic cases can also occur in developed countries. Additionally, in countries where HEV infection is prevalent among the general population, transmission through blood transfusions can occur.
However, there is no evidence to suggest that hepatitis E can be contracted through needle sharing or sexual contact. It is important to note that there is a potential risk of transmission through oral-anal contact.
Animal Transmission of Hepatitis E
Studies have revealed that hepatitis E genotypes 3 and 4 have been detected in various animals such as boars, deer, and pork meat. This finding suggests that the transmission of the hepatitis E virus can occur through the consumption of contaminated or improperly cooked meat or organs. Sporadic cases of hepatitis E infections have been linked to individuals who handle, process, and consume deer meat. Furthermore, occupational exposure to domestic pigs has been found to increase the risk of HEV infections, as the human and swine strains of the virus are closely related.
In addition to pigs and deer, other animals such as cows, horses, sheep, rabbits, and avian species have been found to carry anti-HEV antibodies, indicating their potential role in the transmission of the virus. Shellfish and rodents in certain regions have also been implicated as possible carriers of hepatitis E.