Discover the intriguing intersection of viral zoonosis and immunocompromised states in our latest deep dive into the prevalence and implications of Rat Hepatitis E virus (Rocahepevirus ratti) in individuals with HIV.
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Rat Hepatitis E virus (Rocahepevirus ratti) in people living with HIV.
Rivero-Juarez et al., Emerg Microbes Infect 2023
DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2023.2295389
Summary of RatHEV Prevalence in PLWH in Spain
What’s New: This study investigates the prevalence of rat hepatitis E virus (ratHEV) in people living with HIV (PLWH) in Spain, a group potentially at high risk for worse outcomes from hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections.
Importance: The research is significant as it explores the zoonotic potential of ratHEV in a vulnerable population, providing insights into the geographical distribution and risk of ratHEV in Spain.
Contribution to Literature: The study adds to the current understanding of ratHEV by presenting prevalence data in a large cohort of PLWH, which has not been extensively documented before.
Results: Out of 842 individuals tested, 1.1% (9 individuals) had specific IgG antibodies against ratHEV, indicating exposure. Only one of these was also reactive to HEV IgG antibodies by ELISA. The prevalence of active ratHEV infection, as indicated by the presence of viral RNA, was 0.1% (1 individual). This patient, a man who had sex with men, showed a slight increase in alanine transaminase level but later exhibited undetectable ratHEV RNA and seroconversion to specific IgG antibodies.
Conclusion: The presence of ratHEV in Spain suggests a potential zoonotic threat, with a low but notable prevalence in the studied PLWH population.