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1.
Viruses ; 16(6)2024 May 22.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38932118

ABSTRACT

A number of research studies, including ours, have spotlighted exosomes as critical facilitators of viral dissemination. While hepatitis B virus (HBV) transmission through exosomes has been studied, the focus on its satellite virus, the hepatitis delta virus (HDV), has been unexplored in this context. HDV, although being a defective virus, can replicate its genome autonomously within hepatocytes, independently of HBV. Investigations on Huh7 cells revealed an intriguing phenomenon: the HDV proteins, S-HDAg and L-HDAg, are transmitted between cells without a complete viral structure. Detailed analysis further revealed that the expression of these proteins not only bolstered exosome secretion but also ensured their enrichment within these vesicles. Our experimental approach utilized transfection of various plasmids to examine the role of HDV RNA and proteins in the process. One salient finding was the differential propagation of the HDV proteins S-HDAg and L-HDAg, suggesting intricate molecular mechanisms behind their transmission. Notably, the purity of our exosome preparations was monitored using markers such as TSG101 and CD81. Importantly, these exosomes were found to carry both HDV RNA and proteins, highlighting their role in HDV dissemination. This novel study underscores the role of exosomes in mediating the transmission of HDV components between hepatocytes independent of HBV. These revelations about the exosomal pathway of HDV transmission provide a foundation for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies against HDV infections.


Subject(s)
Exosomes , Hepatitis B virus , Hepatitis Delta Virus , Hepatocytes , Virus Replication , Exosomes/metabolism , Exosomes/virology , Hepatitis Delta Virus/physiology , Hepatitis Delta Virus/genetics , Hepatocytes/virology , Humans , Hepatitis B virus/physiology , Hepatitis B virus/genetics , RNA, Viral/metabolism , RNA, Viral/genetics , Hepatitis D/virology , Hepatitis D/transmission , Cell Line , Hepatitis B/virology , Hepatitis B/transmission , Hepatitis delta Antigens/metabolism
2.
Viruses ; 16(6)2024 Jun 17.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38932263

ABSTRACT

Illicit drug and alcohol abuse have significant negative consequences for individuals who inject drugs/use drugs (PWID/UDs), including decreased immune system function and increased viral pathogenesis. PWID/UDs are at high risk of contracting or transmitting viral illnesses such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV). In South Africa, a dangerous drug-taking method known as "Bluetoothing" has emerged among nyaope users, whereby the users of this drug, after injecting, withdraw blood from their veins and then reinject it into another user. Hence, the transmission of blood-borne viruses (BBVs) is exacerbated by this "Bluetooth" practice among nyaope users. Moreover, several substances of abuse promote HIV, HBV, and HCV replication. With a specific focus on the nyaope drug, viral replication, and transmission, we address the important influence of abused addictive substances and polysubstance use in this review.


Subject(s)
Hepatitis C , Substance-Related Disorders , Humans , Substance-Related Disorders/complications , South Africa/epidemiology , Hepatitis C/virology , Hepatitis C/transmission , Hepatitis B/virology , Hepatitis B/transmission , HIV Infections/transmission , HIV Infections/virology , Virus Replication/drug effects , Illicit Drugs/adverse effects , Hepatitis B virus/physiology , Virus Diseases/transmission , Blood-Borne Infections , Hepacivirus , Substance Abuse, Intravenous/complications
3.
PLoS One ; 19(6): e0287491, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38900729

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis delta virus (HDV) co-infection has been described as the most severe form of viral hepatitis, and can be co-transmitted from mother-to-child. A seroprevalence of 4.0% of HDV infection was reported in pregnant women in Yaoundé, and 11.9% in the general population in Cameroon. Our objective was to describe the rate of HDV infection in HBsAg-positive pregnant women and to determine risk factors associated with mother-to-child transmission of HDV. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted from January 2019 to July 2022 among pregnant women attending antenatal contacts in seven health structures in the Centre Region of Cameroon. A consecutive sampling (non-probability sampling) was used to select only pregnant women of age over 21 years, who gave a written informed consent. Following an informed consent, an open-ended questionnaire was used for a Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) survey of these women, and their blood specimens collected and screened for HBsAg, anti-HIV and anti-HCV antibodies by rapid tests and ELISA. HBsAg-positive samples were further screened for HBeAg, anti-HDV, anti-HBs, and anti HBc antibodies by ELISA, and plasma HDV RNA load measured by RT-qPCR. RESULTS: Of 1992 pregnant women, a rate of 6.7% of HBsAg (133/1992) with highest rate in the rural areas, and 3.9% of hepatitis vaccination rate were recorded. Of 130, 42 (32.3%) were anti-HDV antibody-positive, and 47.6% had detectable HDV RNA viraemia. Of 44 anti-HDV-positive cases, 2 (4.5%) were co-infected with HBV and HCV, while 5 (11.4%) with HIV and HBV. Multiple pregnancies, the presence of tattoos and/or scarifications were significantly associated with the presence of anti-HDV antibodies. Of note, 80% of women with negative HBeAg and positive anti-HBe serological profile, had plasma HDV RNA load of more than log 3.25 (>10.000 copies/ml). CONCLUSION: These results show an intermediate rate of HDV infection among pregnant women with high level of HDV RNA viremia, which suggest an increased risk of vertical and horizontal co-transmission of HDV.


Subject(s)
Hepatitis D , Hepatitis Delta Virus , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious , Humans , Female , Pregnancy , Cameroon/epidemiology , Hepatitis D/epidemiology , Hepatitis D/transmission , Adult , Risk Factors , Hepatitis Delta Virus/genetics , Hepatitis Delta Virus/immunology , Cross-Sectional Studies , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/epidemiology , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/virology , Prevalence , Young Adult , Seroepidemiologic Studies , Hepatitis B Surface Antigens/blood , Hepatitis B/epidemiology , Hepatitis B/transmission , Hepatitis B/virology , Coinfection/epidemiology , Coinfection/virology
5.
PLoS One ; 19(5): e0300149, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38768132

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The burden of parallel and overlapping infections of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), particularly HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are disproportionately higher among pregnant women globally, leading to unwanted consequences. These infections pose significant public health challenges as they can be transmitted vertically to the offspring. This study aimed to determine the sero-epidemiological patterns and predictors of STIs (HIV, syphilis, HBV, and HCV) among pregnant women attending antenatal care clinics at ten health facilities in North-eastern Ethiopia. METHODS: An institution-based multi-center cross-sectional study was conducted from May to November 2022 among 422 pregnant women selected using simple random sampling technique. Semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic characteristics and predictor variables of STIs through face-to-face interviews. Venous blood was collected and it was tested for anti-HIV, HBsAg, anti-HCV, and anti-Treponemal antibodies using immunochromatographic test kits. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to identify associated factors of STIs. Variables with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and a p-value <0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of STIs was 23.9% (95% CI = 20.08-28.25). The prevalence of parallel infections of HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and syphilis were 6.4%, 9%, 1.7%, and 6.9%, respectively. The overlapping infections for HIV-HBV was 4% but HIV-HCV overlapping infection wasn't found. Increased age, tattooing, multiple sexual partners, exposure to unsafe sex, and RH status were independent factors of HBV. Likewise, increased age, rural residence, illiteracy, and tattooing were independently associated with HCV. Moreover, rural residence and a history of tattooing were independent predictors for the acquisition of HIV, whereas multiple sexual partners and RH status were found to be significant predictors of syphilis infection among pregnant women. CONCLUSION: The magnitude of overlapping and parallel STD infections is still continued to be a problem among pregnant women. Moreover, there were overlapping infections of HBV-HIV. Therefore, continuous screening of pregnant women for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and C infections should be performed, and special attention should be given to pregnant women who have co-infections.


Subject(s)
Hepatitis B , Hepatitis C , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious , Sexually Transmitted Diseases , Syphilis , Humans , Female , Ethiopia/epidemiology , Adult , Pregnancy , Cross-Sectional Studies , Sexually Transmitted Diseases/epidemiology , Sexually Transmitted Diseases/transmission , Young Adult , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/epidemiology , Hepatitis B/epidemiology , Hepatitis B/transmission , Hepatitis B/prevention & control , Syphilis/epidemiology , Syphilis/transmission , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/prevention & control , Hepatitis C/epidemiology , Hepatitis C/transmission , Adolescent , HIV Infections/epidemiology , HIV Infections/transmission , Prevalence , Seroepidemiologic Studies
6.
Front Public Health ; 12: 1283350, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38645447

ABSTRACT

The WHO African Region had 81 million people with chronic hepatitis B in 2019, which remains a silent killer. Hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis delta virus (HDV), and HIV can be transmitted from the mother to child. If the HBV infection is acquired at infancy, it may lead to chronic hepatitis B in 90% of the cases. WHO reports that 6.4 million children under 5 years live with chronic hepatitis B infection worldwide. The prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HBV is therefore critical in the global elimination strategy of viral hepatitis as we take lessons from PMTCT of HIV programs in Africa. We sought to create a network of multidisciplinary professional and civil society volunteers with the vision to promote cost-effective, country-driven initiatives to prevent the MTCT of HBV in Africa. In 2018, the Mother-Infant Cohort Hepatitis B Network (MICHep B Network) with members from Cameroon, Zimbabwe, and the United Kingdom and later from Chad, Gabon, and Central African Republic was created. The long-term objectives of the network are to organize capacity-building and networking workshops, create awareness among pregnant women, their partners, and the community, promote the operational research on MTCT of HBV, and extend the network activities to other African countries. The Network organized in Cameroon, two "Knowledge, Attitude and Practice" (KAP) surveys, one in-depth interview of 45 health care workers which revealed a high acceptability of the hepatitis B vaccine by families, two in-person workshops in 2018 and 2019, and one virtual in 2021 with over 190 participants, as well as two workshops on grant writing, bioethics, and biostatistics of 30 postgraduate students. Two HBV seroprevalence studies in pregnant women were conducted in Cameroon and Zimbabwe, in which a prevalence of 5.8% and 2.7%, respectively, was reported. The results and recommendations from the MICHep B Network activities could be implemented in countries of the MICHep B Network and beyond, with the goal of providing free birth dose vaccine against hepatitis B in Africa.


Subject(s)
Hepatitis B , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical , Humans , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/prevention & control , Female , Africa/epidemiology , Pregnancy , Hepatitis B/prevention & control , Hepatitis B/transmission , Infant , Disease Eradication , Adult , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/prevention & control , Infant, Newborn
7.
Acta Med Okayama ; 78(2): 107-113, 2024 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38688828

ABSTRACT

Vertical transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV), especially in Asia, is a key target in the global elimination of HBV. This study assessed the effects of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) in pregnant women for mother-to-infant transmission of HBV. A total of 122 pregnant women at our hospital met the inclusion criteria for high HBV DNA viral loads. They were randomly divided into TDF-treatment (n=70) and placebo (n=52) groups. Maternal liver function and serum HBV DNA load were tested before and after treatment. Clinical and laboratory data of infants were assayed at delivery and 7-months post-partum visit and compared between the two groups. There was no difference in clinical characteristics of participants between the two groups. There were no significant differences in liver function markers, including alanine aminotransferase, total bilirubin, blood creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen levels before and after TDF treatment. The serum HBV DNA viral load of the TDF-treated group became significantly lower than those of the control group and their own pre-medication levels. Infants showed no significant difference in body growth, including weight, height, head size, and five-min Apgar score. At 7 months after birth, 94.29% of infants in the TDF group and 86.54% of control-group infants had protective HBsAb levels ≥ 10 mIU/ml (p>0.05). The HBV infection rate of infants in the TDF-treated group was lower than that in the non-treated group. In high-HBV-DNA-load pregnant women, TDF administered from 28 weeks gestational age to delivery was associated with a lower risk of mother-to-infant transmission of HBV.


Subject(s)
Antiviral Agents , Hepatitis B , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious , Tenofovir , Viral Load , Humans , Female , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/prevention & control , Pregnancy , Tenofovir/therapeutic use , Adult , Hepatitis B/transmission , Hepatitis B/drug therapy , Hepatitis B/prevention & control , Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use , Antiviral Agents/adverse effects , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/drug therapy , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/virology , Infant, Newborn , Viral Load/drug effects , Hepatitis B virus/drug effects , DNA, Viral/blood
8.
Front Public Health ; 12: 1324336, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38660346

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Hepatitis B infection (HBV) is prevalent in China. Due to language barriers and cultural differences, it is not always straightforward to evaluate disease knowledge in liver clinics. We aimed to assess the awareness on HBV and its mechanisms of transmission in HBV-infected Chinese patients and their household contacts. Methods: HBV-infected Chinese patients and their contacts were interviewed by a native Chinese nurse regarding their knowledge on HBV transmission mechanisms, use of preventive measures and vaccination status. Non-Chinese HBV-infected patients and their household contacts served as a control group. Results: In total 182 patients and 398 contacts participated with 85 (47%) patients and 240 (60%) contacts being from China. Language barrier was reported in 80% of Chinese patients and 44% of their contacts. Knowledge on parenteral and sexual HBV transmission was high in all patients (~90%) but Chinese were more aware of vertical transmission than controls (94% vs. 68%; p < 0.01). Regarding the use of preventive measures, Chinese patients were more forewarned in their use to avoid parenteral transmission (93% vs. 74%, p < 0.01). When assessing household contacts, Chinese used preventive measures more frequently than controls for parenteral and sexual transmission (79% vs. 65 and 81% vs. 48%, p < 0.05). Vaccination coverage was slightly lower in Chinese contacts compared to controls (78% vs. 86%, p = 0.05). Conclusion: Despite relevant language barriers, Chinese patients are well informed on the mechanisms of HBV transmission. Cultural differences may explain a higher use of preventive measures among the Chinese population. HBV vaccination of household contacts should be reinforced in both groups.


Subject(s)
Communication Barriers , Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice , Hepatitis B , Humans , Female , Male , Hepatitis B/transmission , China , Adult , Middle Aged , Spain , East Asian People
9.
Liver Int ; 44(6): 1422-1434, 2024 Jun.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38456620

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The use of antiviral agents, specifically tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), in pregnant women to prevent mother-to-child HBV transmission is a key step towards hepatitis elimination. However, data on using tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) is insufficient. The frequent occurrence of postpartum ALT flares may impact the clinical implementation. METHODS: The maternal and infant outcomes were compared in multi-centre trials of high viral load HBsAg/HBeAg+ pregnant women receiving TAF or TDF from the third trimester until 2 weeks postpartum with intensive follow-ups. To explore the dynamic pre- and postpartum changes in ALT levels, we used a group-based trajectory model for analysing data of 332 women from three prospective studies. RESULTS: After treatment, the maternal HBV DNA levels significantly decreased from baseline to delivery: 7.87 ± 0.59 to 3.99 ± 1.07 Log10 IU/mL TAF (n = 78) and 8.30 ± 0.36 to 4.47 ± 0.86 Log10 IU/mL (TDF, n = 53), with viral load reductions of 3.87 versus 3.83 Log10 IU/mL. The HBsAg-positive rates among 12-month-old infants were 1.28% (1/78) versus 1.82% (1/55) respectively (p = 1.00). Of the TAF or TDF-treated mothers, 25.64% versus 16.98% experienced ALT > 2X ULN, and 11.54% versus 1.89% received extended antiviral treatment. Our model revealed four distinct ALT patterns: stable ALT (87.2%), moderate (8.0%) or marked (2.4%) postpartum flares, or prepartum elevations (2.4%). CONCLUSIONS: TAF effectively reduces mother-to-child HBV transmission, but prophylaxis failure still occurred in few cases. Postpartum ALT flares are common in women receiving TAF or TDF during pregnancy. Approximately 12.8% of mothers may require extended postpartum antiviral treatment. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: NCT03695029 (ClinicalTrials.gov).


Subject(s)
Alanine Transaminase , Alanine , Antiviral Agents , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious , Tenofovir , Viral Load , Humans , Tenofovir/therapeutic use , Tenofovir/analogs & derivatives , Female , Pregnancy , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/prevention & control , Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/drug therapy , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/virology , Adult , Alanine/therapeutic use , Alanine/analogs & derivatives , Alanine Transaminase/blood , Prospective Studies , Infant, Newborn , Hepatitis B/transmission , Hepatitis B/drug therapy , Hepatitis B/prevention & control , Adenine/analogs & derivatives , Adenine/therapeutic use , Hepatitis B virus/genetics , DNA, Viral/blood , Infant
10.
Transplantation ; 108(6): 1440-1447, 2024 Jun 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38361232

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Organs from Public Health Service criteria (PHSC) donors, previously referred to as PHS infectious-risk donors, have historically been recovered but not used, traditionally referred to as "discard," at higher rates despite negligible risk to recipients. On March 1, 2021, the definition of PHSC donors narrowed to include only the subset of donors deemed to have meaningfully elevated risk in the current era of improved infectious disease testing. METHODS: Using Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients data from May 1, 2019, to December 31, 2022, we compared rates of PHSC classification and nonutilization of PHSC organs before versus after the March 1, 2021, policy change among recovered decedents using the χ 2 tests. We performed an adjusted interrupted time series analysis to examine kidney and liver recovery/nonuse (traditionally termed "discard") and kidney, liver, lung, and heart nonutilization (nonrecovery or recovery/nonuse) prepolicy versus postpolicy. RESULTS: PHSC classification dropped sharply from 24.5% prepolicy to 15.4% postpolicy ( P  < 0.001). Before the policy change, PHSC kidney recovery/nonuse, liver nonuse, lung nonuse, and heart nonuse were comparable to non-PHSC estimates (adjusted odds ratio: kidney =  0.98 1.06 1.14 , P  = 0.14; liver =  0.85 0.92 1.01 , P  = 0.07; lung =  0.91 0.99 1.08 , P  = 0.83; heart =  0.89 0.97 1.05 , P  = 0.47); following the policy change, PHSC kidney recovery/nonuse, liver nonuse, lung nonuse, and heart nonuse were lower than non-PHSC estimates (adjusted odds ratio: kidney =  0.77 0.84 0.91 , P  < 0.001; liver =  0.77 0.84 0.92 , P  < 0.001; lung =  0.74 0.81 0.90 , P  < 0.001; heart =  0.61 0.67 0.73 , P  < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Even though PHSC donors under the new definition are a narrower and theoretically riskier subpopulation than under the previous classification, PHSC status appears to be associated with a reduced risk of kidney and liver recovery/nonuse and nonutilization of all organs. Although historically PHSC organs have been underused, our findings demonstrate a notable shift toward increased PHSC organ utilization.


Subject(s)
Donor Selection , HIV Infections , Hepatitis B , Hepatitis C , Tissue Donors , Humans , Tissue Donors/statistics & numerical data , Male , Female , HIV Infections/transmission , HIV Infections/epidemiology , HIV Infections/diagnosis , Hepatitis B/transmission , Hepatitis B/epidemiology , Hepatitis B/diagnosis , Hepatitis C/transmission , Hepatitis C/epidemiology , Hepatitis C/diagnosis , Risk Assessment , United States/epidemiology , United States Public Health Service , Middle Aged , Risk Factors , Registries , Organ Transplantation , Adult , Tissue and Organ Procurement/statistics & numerical data
11.
J Reprod Immunol ; 162: 104208, 2024 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38367478

ABSTRACT

High HBV DNA levels predispose to mother to child transmission (MTCT) of HBV. Early nucleotide analogue (NA) therapy can reduce HBV DNA and minimize MTCT. We analysed immune-metabolic profile in pregnant mothers who received NA from 2nd trimester compared with untreated mothers. In 2nd trimester, there was no difference in immune profiles between Gr.1 and Gr.2 but high viral load women had downregulated pyruvate, NAD+ metabolism but in 3rd trimester, Gr.1 had significant reduction in HBV-DNA, upregulated pyruvate and NAD with increased IFN-2αA, CD8Tcells, NK cells and decreased Tregs, IL15, IL18, IL29, TGFß3 compared to Gr.2. In Gr.1, three eAg-ve women showed undetectable DNA and HBsAg. At delivery, Gr.1 showed no MTCT, with undetectable HBV DNA, HBsAg, high CD8 and NK cells in two women. We conclude, that starting NA from second trimester, reduces HBV load and MTCT, modulates NAD, induces immunity and suggest use of NA in early gestation in future trials.


Subject(s)
Hepatitis B virus , Hepatitis B , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious , Viremia , Child , Female , Humans , Pregnancy , CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes , DNA, Viral , Hepatitis B Surface Antigens , Killer Cells, Natural , NAD , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/drug therapy , Pregnancy Trimester, Second , Pyruvates , Tenofovir , Viremia/immunology , Hepatitis B/immunology , Hepatitis B/transmission
12.
Rev. bras. oftalmol ; 83: e0003, 2024. tab, graf
Article in Portuguese | LILACS | ID: biblio-1529931

ABSTRACT

RESUMO Objetivo: Identificar o perfil dos doadores de tecidos oculares humanos na área de atuação do Banco de Olhos da Paraíba, destacando o impacto da sorologia positiva para hepatite B no descarte dos tecidos para transplante. Métodos: O estudo é transversal e utilizou dados do Banco de Olhos da Paraíba entre janeiro de 2013 e dezembro de 2022. Dados sobre procedência, idade, sexo, causa do óbito, tempo entre óbito e enucleação, resultados sorológicos e motivo de descarte das córneas dos doadores foram coletados. Resultados: O maior motivo de descarte foi por sorologia positiva (56,5%), sendo positivadas as sorologias positivas para hepatite B e HBsAg em 11,1% e 4,75% dos pacientes, respectivamente. Conclusão: A sorologia positiva para hepatite B como um critério de descarte absoluto é responsável por grande parcela de descartes, apesar da pouca informação sobre suas repercussões e representação de infectividade nos receptores do transplante.


ABSTRACT Objective: To identify the profile of human ocular tissue donors in the area covered by the Eye Bank of Paraíba (PB), highlighting the impact of positive serology for hepatitis B (anti-HBc) in the disposal of tissues for transplantation. Methods: This is a cross-sectional that uses data from the Eye Bank of Paraíba (PB) between January 2013 and December 2022. Data on origin, age, sex, cause of death, time between death and enucleation, serological results, and reason for discarded donor corneas were collected. Results: The main reason for discarding was due to positive serology (56.5%), with positive anti-HBc and HBsAg serology in 11.1% and 4.75% of patients, respectively. Conclusion: Anti-HBc positive serology as an absolute disposal criterion is responsible for great part of disposals, despite little information about its repercussions and representation of infectivity in transplant recipients.


Subject(s)
Humans , Male , Female , Child, Preschool , Child , Adolescent , Adult , Middle Aged , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Tissue Donors/statistics & numerical data , Corneal Transplantation/standards , Corneal Transplantation/statistics & numerical data , Donor Selection/standards , Eye Banks/standards , Hepatitis B Antibodies/analysis , Serologic Tests/standards , Hepatitis B virus , Cross-Sectional Studies , Retrospective Studies , Disease Transmission, Infectious/legislation & jurisprudence , Disease Transmission, Infectious/prevention & control , Disease Transmission, Infectious/statistics & numerical data , Eye Banks/statistics & numerical data , Hepatitis B/prevention & control , Hepatitis B/transmission , Hepatitis B Core Antigens/analysis
13.
J Med Virol ; 95(8): e29006, 2023 08.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37548473

ABSTRACT

A small percentage of couples who regularly donated blood in China tested positive for HBsAg. Although it is well known that blood donors can acquire hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection from a chronically infected sexual partner, the prevalence of occult hepatitis B infections (OBIs) among blood donations from partners of HBV-infected chronically infected spouses and the risk to blood safety remain poorly understood. Among 212 763 blood donors, 54 pairs of couples (108 donations) were enrolled because one partner tested positive for HBsAg. Several molecular and serological examinations were conducted. The origin of HBV transmission between sexual partners was investigated further. Also evaluated was the potential risk of HBV infection with OBIs. We identified 10 (10/54, 18.6%) sexual partners of chronically infected HBV donors who were positive for HBV DNA, including five samples (9.3%) with OBIs, of which 3 (3/54, 5.6%, 1 in 70 921 donations) passed the routine blood screening tests. Seven of the 10 HBV-DNA-positive couples contracted the virus possibly through sexual or close contact. Among infected couples, immune escape mutations were observed. A high prevalence of OBIs was found among the partners of chronically infected HBV blood donors, posing a potential threat to blood safety.


Subject(s)
Blood Donors , Blood Safety , Hepatitis B , Spouses , Blood Safety/statistics & numerical data , Hepatitis B/epidemiology , Hepatitis B/prevention & control , Hepatitis B/transmission , Spouses/statistics & numerical data , Prevalence , China/epidemiology , Blood Donors/statistics & numerical data , Hepatitis B virus , Humans , Male , Female , Young Adult , Adult , Middle Aged
14.
J Med Virol ; 95(6): e28879, 2023 06.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37314050

ABSTRACT

Serum samples were collected from 54 hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-positive Chinese patients infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) subgenotype B2 or C2. They were compared for transmission efficiency using same volume of samples or infectivity using same genome copy number. Adding polyethylene glycol (PEG) during inoculation did not increase infectivity of fresh samples but markedly increased infectivity following prolonged sample storage. Differentiated HepaRG cells infected without PEG produced more hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and higher HBsAg/HBeAg ratio than sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP)-reconstituted HepG2 cells infected with PEG. They better supported replication of core promoter mutant in contrast to wild-type (WT) virus by HepG2/NTCP cells. Overall, subgenotype C2 samples had higher viral load than B2 samples, and in general produced more HBeAg, HBsAg, and replicative DNA following same-volume inoculation. Precore mutant was more prevalent in subgenotype B2 and had reduced transmission efficiency. When same genome copy number of viral particles was inoculated, viral signals were not necessarily higher for three WT C2 isolates than four WT B2 isolates. Using viral particles generated from cloned HBV genome, three WT C2 isolates showed slightly reduced infectivity than three B2 isolates. In conclusion, subgenotype C2 serum samples had higher transmission efficiency than B2 isolates in association with higher viral load and lower prevalence of precore mutant, but not necessarily higher infectivity. PEG-independent infection by HBV viremic serum samples is probably attributed to a labile host factor.


Subject(s)
Hepatitis B Surface Antigens , Hepatitis B e Antigens , Hepatitis B virus , Hepatitis B , Humans , Genotype , Hepatitis B e Antigens/blood , Hepatitis B Surface Antigens/blood , Hepatitis B virus/genetics , Polyethylene Glycols , East Asian People , Hepatitis B/transmission , Hepatitis B/virology , Hep G2 Cells
15.
Arch Dis Child ; 108(1): 15-19, 2023 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36344216

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Children requiring multiple blood transfusions are at high risk of transfusion-transmissible infections (TTIs). Lao People's Democratic Republic is a low-resource setting where donor blood screening faces challenges. This study aimed to determine the burden of TTIs in children in Vientiane Capital. METHODS: 300 children with transfusion history and 300 controls were recruited. In addition, 49 newly diagnosed transfusion recipients were followed for up to 12 months. Serum was tested for hepatitis B surface antigen and IgG antibodies against parvovirus B19, hepatitis B, C and E viruses. RESULTS: The patients had a similar prevalence of anti-hepatitis B core antibodies (56; 18.7%) and hepatitis B surface antigen (8; 2.7%) as the controls (58; 19.3% and 9; 3.0%, respectively). However, there was a higher prevalence of an antibody profile suggestive of hepatitis B vaccination (anti-hepatitis B surface antibody positive/anti-hepatitis B core antibody negative) in the transfused group (140/299; 46.8%) than in controls (77/300; 25.7%, p<0.01). All other markers were similar in the patients and controls or higher in the controls: anti-hepatitis C virus (2.7% and 3.3%, p=0.6), anti-hepatitis E virus (7.5% and 12.7%, p=0.006) and anti-parvovirus B19 (2.4% and 8.5%, p=0.001). The longitudinal cohort did not show an increase in any marker over time. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest no significant role of TTIs in Lao children. The higher prevalence of the hepatitis B vaccination profile in transfusion recipients showed that recommendations to vaccinate before commencing transfusions is at least partially implemented, although there is room for improvement.


Subject(s)
Blood Transfusion , Hepatitis B virus , Hepatitis B , Child , Humans , Hepatitis B Surface Antigens , Hospitals , Laos/epidemiology , Hepatitis B/epidemiology , Hepatitis B/transmission
16.
Infect Dis Poverty ; 11(1): 106, 2022 Oct 11.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36221140

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Elimination of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a striking challenge for countries with high or moderate disease burden. Therefore, using China as a practical case to share experiences for similar countries may accelerate the achievement of the WHO 2030 target of 90% reduction in HBV-related incidence. We aim to evaluate the impact of national HBV immunization strategies in China; and the feasibility to achieve WHO 2030 targets under different scenarios. METHODS: We constructed an expanded Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Recovered (SEIR) model and decision tree-Markov model to estimate the epidemic of HBV in China, assess the feasibility of 2030 Elimination Goals through the projections and conduct the economic analysis. Least square method was used to calibrate the expanded SEIR model by yearly data of laboratory-confirmed HBV cases from 1990 to 2018. Two models were separately used to evaluate the impact and cost-effectiveness of HBV vaccine by comparing prevalence of chronic HBV infections, quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), incremental cost effectiveness ratio and benefit-cost ratio (BCR) under various intervention options, providing a basis for exploring new containment strategies. RESULTS: Between 1990 and 2020, the number of chronic HBV infections decreased by 33.9%. The current status quo would lead to 55.73 million infections (3.95% prevalence) in 2030, compared to 90.63 million (6.42% prevalence) of the "Without the NIP" scenario (NIP: National Immunization Program), 114.78 million (8.13% prevalence) without any interventions. The prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) strategy showed a net benefit as 12,283.50 dollars per person, with BCR as 12.66, which is higher than that of universal vaccination at 9.49. Compared with no screening and no vaccination, the PMTCT strategy could save 7726.03 dollars for each QALY increase. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings proved the HBV vaccination has demonstrated a substantial positive impact on controlling the epidemic of HBV in terms of effectiveness and economy after about 30 years of implementation of the national hepatitis B immunization program which also provided containment experience for high or medium burden countries. As for China, the next step should focus on exploring strategies to improve diagnosis and treatment coverage to reduce the burden of HBV-related deaths and ultimately eliminate HBV.


Subject(s)
Hepatitis B Vaccines , Hepatitis B , Immunization Programs , China/epidemiology , Cost-Benefit Analysis , Female , Hepatitis B/epidemiology , Hepatitis B/prevention & control , Hepatitis B/transmission , Hepatitis B Vaccines/administration & dosage , Hepatitis B, Chronic/epidemiology , Hepatitis B, Chronic/prevention & control , Humans , Infant, Newborn , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/prevention & control , Pregnancy , Program Evaluation
17.
Buenos Aires; GCBA. Gerencia Operativa de Epidemiología; 8 jul. 2022. f:12 l:19 p. tab, graf.(Boletín Epidemiológico Semanal: Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, 7, 307).
Monography in Spanish | LILACS, InstitutionalDB, BINACIS, UNISALUD | ID: biblio-1391790

ABSTRACT

La hepatitis B es una infección vírica que afecta al hígado, puede dar lugar tanto a un cuadro agudo como a una enfermedad crónica, y se transmite por la vía sexual, vertical y parenteral. En este informe, se describe la situación mundial y nacional de esta patología, y su transmisión vertical, así como la caracterización de niños expuestos al virus durante el embarazo, nacidos en el Hospital Materno Infantil Ramón Sardá entre 2018 y 2021.


Subject(s)
Humans , Female , Pregnancy , Infant, Newborn , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/prevention & control , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/statistics & numerical data , Hepatitis B/transmission , Hepatitis B/epidemiology , Epidemiological Monitoring , Infant, Newborn, Diseases/epidemiology
18.
Viruses ; 14(2)2022 01 26.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35215839

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: In 1991, a mass immunization campaign against the hepatitis B virus (HBV) for children and teenagers was introduced in Italy. This study evaluated the impact of the immunization campaign on the incidence and modes of HBV transmission. METHOD: Acute HBV cases of viral hepatitis were reported to the National Surveillance System (SEIEVA). Hepatitis A cases reported to the same system were used as controls to calculate the adjusted odds ratios and the population attributable risk for potential risk factors. RESULTS: The incidence of acute HBV declined from 5.0 in 1990 to 0.4 in 2019 per 100,000 population. The fall was almost total in people targeted by the campaign: in 2019, zero cases (100% reduction) in the age-group 0-14 years and 0.1 cases per 100,000 population (99.4% reduction) in the age-group 15-24 years were reported. In the decade 2010-2019, nearly one-fifth (19.3%) of cases occurred in foreigners. Intravenous drug use is no longer a risk factor (OR = 0.7; 95% CI = 0.5-1.02). Beauty treatments, risky sexual exposure, and household contact with an HBsAg carrier were found to be independent predictors of acute hepatitis B. CONCLUSIONS: The HB vaccination campaign proved effective in minimising acute HBV in Italy. Control of the infection is close to being reached for the first time in Europe.


Subject(s)
Hepatitis B/prevention & control , Immunization Programs/statistics & numerical data , Adolescent , Adult , Age Distribution , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Case-Control Studies , Child , Child, Preschool , Drug Users , Emigrants and Immigrants , Female , Hepatitis B/epidemiology , Hepatitis B/transmission , Hepatitis B virus/immunology , Humans , Incidence , Infant , Infant, Newborn , Italy/epidemiology , Male , Middle Aged , Risk Factors , Young Adult
20.
Viruses ; 14(1)2022 01 03.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35062286

ABSTRACT

In 2016, WHO member states at the World Health Assembly adopted a Global Health Sector Strategy that included a policy of eliminating viral hepatitis. Clear targets were established to assist in achieving this by 2030. The strategy, while achievable, has exposed existing global disparities in healthcare systems and their ability to implement such policies. Compounding this, the regions with most disparity are also those where the hepatitis B prevalence and disease burden are the greatest. Foundational to hepatitis B elimination is the identification of both those with chronic infection and crucially pregnant women, and primary prevention through vaccination. Vaccination, including the birth dose and full three-dose coverage, is key, but complete mother-to-child transmission prevention includes reducing the maternal hepatitis B viral load in the third trimester where appropriate. Innovations and simplified tools exist in order to achieve elimination, but what is desperately required is the will to implement these strategies through the support of appropriate investment and funding. Without this, disparities will continue.


Subject(s)
Global Health , Healthcare Disparities , Hepatitis B, Chronic/prevention & control , Hepatitis B/prevention & control , Africa/epidemiology , Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use , Cost of Illness , Female , Hepatitis B/drug therapy , Hepatitis B/epidemiology , Hepatitis B/transmission , Hepatitis B Vaccines , Hepatitis B, Chronic/diagnosis , Hepatitis B, Chronic/drug therapy , Hepatitis B, Chronic/epidemiology , Humans , Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/prevention & control , Pregnancy , Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/prevention & control , Prevalence , Vaccination
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