Title : Co-infection of hepatitis A and hepatitis E viruses in outpatients in Dhaka, Bangladesh: A case series
Abstract:
Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) and Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) infections continue to pose substantial global health concerns, especially in areas of insufficient sanitation and hygiene standards. This case report investigates the seroprevalence of Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) and Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) within a cohort of 507 patients who sought testing for HAV IgM and HEV IgM from 01 July 2023 to 31 December 2023. Case Report Form (CRF) for viral hepatitis suggested by the CDC, Atlanta, Georgia was completed and written consent was taken from the patients who are included in this study.
The results revealed that, among the total participants, 294 underwent HAV IgM testing, with 138 testing positive (46.9% positivity rate). Additionally, 213 individuals underwent HEV IgM testing, and 36 tested positive (16.9% positivity rate). Notably, 92 patients (18.2%) chose to undergo both HAV and HEV IgM tests whereas 2 patients (2.2%) found positive for both HAV and HEV IgM, indicating a co-infection with hepatitis A virus and Hepatitis E virus. The findings underscore the importance of considering multiple hepatitis viruses in the diagnostic evaluation of patients with acute hepatitis symptoms, particularly in regions with variable prevalence rates for these pathogens.
Audience Take Away:
The study on the co-infection of Hepatitis A (HAV) and Hepatitis E (HEV) viruses in outpatients in Dhaka, Bangladesh, could provide valuable insights into several aspects of these viral infections and their impact on public health. Here are some potential learnings from this topic:
- Epidemiology and Prevalence: The research could help determine the prevalence of co-infection with HAV and HEV in the outpatient population in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Understanding the epidemiology of these infections is crucial for public health planning and resource allocation.
- Clinical Manifestations: The study may shed light on the clinical manifestations of co-infection, including the severity of symptoms, the duration of illness, and the overall impact on the health of the patients. Different combinations of viruses may have unique clinical presentations compared to single infections.
- Risk Factors: Identifying common risk factors associated with co-infection can contribute to a better understanding of how individuals are exposed to HAV and HEV. This information can be used to develop preventive strategies and targeted interventions.
- Transmission Dynamics: Understanding how HAV and HEV are transmitted, especially in an outpatient setting, can inform public health measures to control the spread of these viruses. This includes identifying potential sources of contamination and routes of transmission.
- Immune Response: Investigating the immune response during co-infection may provide insights into the interaction between the two viruses and the host's immune system. This knowledge is crucial for developing effective vaccines and therapeutic interventions.
- Public Health Implications: The study could have implications for public health policies and guidelines related to the prevention, diagnosis, and management of viral hepatitis. It may contribute to the development of targeted vaccination strategies and awareness campaigns.
- Regional Variances: The findings could highlight any regional variations in the prevalence and characteristics of HAV and HEV co-infection. This information is essential for tailoring public health interventions to specific geographic areas.
- Global Relevance: The study may add to the global understanding of viral hepatitis, as co-infections are relevant not only in Bangladesh but also in other parts of the world. The insights gained may contribute to the broader scientific knowledge on these viruses.
In summary, a case series on the co-infection of Hepatitis A and Hepatitis E viruses in outpatients in Dhaka, Bangladesh, can provide crucial information for public health planning, clinical management, and preventive strategies related to these viral infections.
