Seroprevalence of Hepatitis A and E Viruses: A Four-Year Retrospective Analysis from a Private Diagnostic Laboratory in Gurugram, India

Objectives: This study examined the seroprevalence of Hepatitis A virus (HAV), Hepatitis E virus (HEV), and their co-infections in patients presenting with clinical features of acute viral hepatitis in the Gurugram region. Beyond prevalence, demographic patterns, seasonal distribution, and biochemical correlates were evaluated to generate evidence relevant for public health interventions. Method: A retrospective, observational study was undertaken at a NABL-accredited private diagnostic laboratory in Delhi–NCR. A total of 977 serum samples were analyzed between August 2021 and July 2025 from patients clinically suspected of acute viral hepatitis. Anti-HAV IgM and anti-HEV IgM antibodies were detected using commercial ELISA kits. Demographic profiles, liver function parameters, and clinical characteristics were assessed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Findings: Of 977 samples, 322 (32.95%) were seropositive for HAV, HEV, or both. HAV was more prevalent (22.92%) than HEV (10.03%), while 3.48% of patients exhibited co-infection. HAV infections were significantly more common in children (72.7%), whereas HEV predominated among adults (71.1%). Male patients showed higher seropositivity across both viruses. Cases with dual HAV–HEV infection demonstrated the most marked biochemical abnormalities, including elevated bilirubin and ALT levels. Clear seasonal clustering was observed, with the highest burden during the monsoon months. Conclusion/Novelty: This is the first four-year, laboratory-based surveillance study from the Delhi NCR–Gurugram region providing systematic evidence on HAV, HEV, and co-infections, alongside demographic, seasonal, and biochemical correlates. The results demonstrate HAV predominance in children (72.7%), support the need for pediatric HAV vaccination, and highlight the clinical significance of early identification of co-infections to mitigate risks of acute liver failure. Keywords: Hepatitis A, Co-infection, Hepatitis E, Seroprevalence, Delhi NCR, Acute viral hepatitis, Public health surveillance