Prevalence of GBV‐C/Hepatitis G Virus Viremia and Anti‐E2 in Canadian Blood Donors

Background and Objectives: GB virus C (GBV‐C)/hepatitis G virus (HGV) is a recently recognized parenterally and sexually transmitted agent. The prevalence of GBV‐C/HGV markers in Canadian blood donors has not been previously studied and was therefore determined. Materials and Methods: Blood donors [identity unlinked (IU), short‐term temporarily deferred (STTD) and autologous groups] and donor samples with antibodies to hepatitis C (anti‐HCV) or hepatitis B core were tested for GBV‐C/HGV RNA and for antibodies to E2 antigen (anti‐E2). Results: GBV‐C/HGV RNA was found in 1.1% and anti‐E2 in 7.3% of the combined IU/STTD donor group. Viremia was much more common in anti‐HCV‐positive samples (12.5%); anti‐E2 was present in >50% of this group. In the STTD group, female gender was significantly associated with viremia. Conclusion: GBV‐C/HGV infection is relatively common in Canadian donors, and a small proportion are viremic. The association of female gender and viremia was unexpected. Further study is needed to clarify the epidemiology and natural history of GBV‐C/HGV infection.