Background Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major public health concern, particularly in settings affected by displacement and poor sanitation. Objectives This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of HEV and identify associated environmental risk factors among internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the Al‐Azaza Camp, Blue Nile State, Sudan. Methods A cross‐sectional analytical study was conducted from August to December 2021. Blood samples were collected from 1078 IDPs and tested for anti‐HEV IgM and IgG antibodies. Participants completed structured questionnaires to identify demographic and environmental exposures linked to HEV transmission. Results The overall HEV seroprevalence was 76.4%. Individuals over 40 years of age had significantly higher odds of seropositivity (OR = 1.62). Males showed a slightly higher prevalence compared to females (53.3% vs. 46.7%). Several environmental factors were also associated with HEV exposure, including water source, open defecation and proximity to defecation sites, waste disposal practices, and flooding. Conclusion The high HEV seroprevalence among IDPs in the Al‐Azaza Camp highlights the urgent need for targeted public health interventions. Addressing environmental risk factors and improving hygiene and sanitation through the provision of chlorinated safe water, deployment of mobile WASH and hygiene‐promotion teams, establishment of HEV surveillance in camps, and integration of HEV awareness into maternal health programs are essential to reduce HEV transmission in vulnerable displaced populations.
Osman et al. (Thu,) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: