Seroprevalence of hepatitis E in swine abattoir workers
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Date
2017
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
African health sciences
Abstract
Hepatitis E (HE) caused by Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging global public health threat. It has been identified
as potentially zoonotic and swine act as main reservoirs.
Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with HEV in swine
abattoir workers.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study where 45 workers were sampled (N=50), serum collected and tested for presence of
anti HEV IgM using ELISA.
Results: A seroprevalence of 13.3% was obtained with the highest 50% among slaughterers and the lowest amongst sanitary
cleaner, cloth cleaners and inspector. Those in direct contact with live pigs, their carcasses and tissues were at a higher risk compared
to those in indirect contact. Seroprevalence was seen to increase with age, with the highest rate among those above 24
years.
Conclusion: There is silent HE virus infection in abattoir workers at Wambizi as reflected by presence anti HEV IgM in 13%
of the tested serum. However, no single case of HE has ever been reported in swine abattoir workers or general population
in Kampala city. This silent maintenance of HEV infection amongst swine abattoir workers is an occupational risk that could
challenge public health systems.
Description
Keywords
Hepatitis E, Seroprevalence, Swine abattoir workers
Citation
Ukuli AQ, Mugimba KK. Seroprevalence of hepatitis E in swine abattoir workers. Afri Health Sci.2017;17(4): 1022-1028. https:// dx.doi.org/10.4314/ahs.v17i4.9