Seroprevalence of Hepatitis E Virus among Domestic Animals in Plateau State–Nigeria

Aim: This study was undertaken to determine the epidemiology, seroprevalence and associated risk factors, of Hepatitis E virus (HEV) among domestic animals.

Study Design: Cross sectional epidemiological survey.

Place and Duration: The study was carried out in three geographical zones of Plateau State, over a six month period from July to December, 2012.

Methodology: A total of 166 animal subjects were recruited into the study.

The animals studied were made up of pigs (67), goats (43), sheep (19) and cattle (37). Information was obtained from the animal subject handlers using interviewer administered questionnaire. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for HEV antibodies (IgG and IgM) using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. Data obtained were analyzed using SPSS version 17.0 statistical software.

Results: Results revealed an overall prevalence of 24.1% (p<.001) with IgG and IgM accounting for 16.3% and 7.8% respectively. Goats recorded the highest prevalence with 37.2%, followed by Pigs with 32.8% and Sheep with 10.5%, but it is note-worthy that Cattle recorded 0% overall seropositivity. Statistical significant association was observed with regard to age (p=.04); animals <1 year old accounted for the highest seroprevalence (21.3%) and least among animals ≥2years old (7.7% OR 0.3; 95%CI0.1-1.1). Seropositivity tends to decreases with increase in age. A similar trend was observed with regard to IgM seropositivity. The significant associated risk factor was; frequency of waste disposal (p<.001) (IgM, OR 39.1; 95% CI 4.9-310.4; IgG, OR 19.9; 95% CI3.9-100.7). Animals that had been vaccinated against other diseases tend to exhibit the least seropositivity compared to animal subjects with no history of any form of vaccination.

Conclusion: Data suggest that HEV remains an under-recognized and significant public health issue in the study area, and prevalent among domestic animals, warranting further attention and research. Preventive public health measures should be reinforced among all communities’ particularly domestic animals and a periodic monitoring system set up for control.