Serological and molecular characterization of hepatitis E virus and co-infections during the 2014 Biratnagar outbreak in Nepal

This study provides a detailed characterization of HEV markers during the 2014 Biratnagar outbreak and confirms the circulation of HEV genotype 1a. HAV, HBV, and HCV infections were uncommon, with no significant co-infections observed. These findings offer valuable insights into HEV marker distribution and co-infection patterns, which can inform public health strategies, including enhanced surveillance, improved access to safe water, and consideration of targeted vaccination to mitigate future outbreaks in endemic settings.