SEROPREVALENCE OF HEPATITIS-E VIRUS (HEV) AMONGST MEAT HANDLERS IN IRRUA, EDO STATE, NIGERIA

Hepatitis E virus (HEV), a member of the Hepeviridae family, is a significant cause of acute hepatitis, often self-limiting but occasionally severe in vulnerable populations. Four major HEV genotypes have been identified: HEV-1 and HEV-2, which primarily infect humans, and HEV-3 and HEV-4, which are zoonotic and transmitted through animal exposure. While HEV-1 and HEV-2 are commonly associated with waterborne outbreaks in low-income regions, zoonotic transmission of HEV-3 and HEV-4 is increasingly recognized as a public health concern. In Nigeria, hepatitis E remains poorly understood, with limited data available on its prevalence, particularly among high-risk occupational groups. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of HEV among meat handlers in Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria. Irrua was specifically chosen due to its role as a major livestock and meat processing hub, the presence of abattoirs, and potential zoonotic transmission risks associated with frequent animal contact. Additionally, challenges related to water quality and sanitation in the area may contribute to environmental HEV exposure. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 100 participants, including meat sellers, butchers, abattoir workers, and pig handlers. Serum samples were collected and tested for anti-HEV IgG and IgM antibodies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits from Diapro, Milan, Italy. The results showed a seroprevalence of 68% for anti-HEV IgG and 17% for anti-HEV IgM, indicating both past exposure and recent infections among participants. The high seroprevalence suggests that occupational exposure, likely through direct contact with animals and their blood, plays a significant role in HEV transmission in this region. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted public health interventions, including improved hygiene practices, awareness campaigns, and surveillance efforts to reduce HEV transmission risks among meat handlers in Nigeria