Hepatitis E in South Africa: Evidence for sporadic spread and increased seroprevalence in rural areas

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major cause of non-A, non-B hepatitis in developing countries. Factors influencing sporadic spread of hepatitis E are unclear. We examined anti-HEV seroprevalence and demographic data from 407 urban and 360 rural black South African adults living in formal housing, squatter camps, or mud huts. Anti-HEV sero-prevalence ranged from 5.8% to 19.1% (mean 10.7%) in the different regions. Mean urban and rural rates were 6.6% and 15.3%, respectively (P = 0.0001). Rural mud hut dwellers, using unchlorinated river water, were at greater risk (17.4%) than rural villagers (5.3%; P = 0.008). A linear relation was found between seroprevalence and age, suggesting sporadic spread. The high prevalence in mud hut dwellers suggests that contaminated water plays a major role in HEV spread in South Africa. Routine chlorination or boiling of river drinking water before consumption may reduce HEV infection.