Hepatitis E: Insights Into Molecular Virology, Epidemiology, And Pathogenesis

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis E is a significant public health concern, especially in developing countries, due to its association with waterborne outbreaks. It accounts for a large proportion of enteric-transmitted liver diseases worldwide. In developed nations, cases of hepatitis E are rare and typically linked to travellers from endemic regions or individuals without identifiable risk factors.

Objective: To provide an overview of the hepatitis E virus (HEV), including its virology, transmission, zoonotic potential, and treatment options.

Methods: A review of current literature on HEV epidemiology, virology, modes of transmission, and treatment approaches, with a focus on genotype distribution and its impact on public health.

Results: HEV is a single-stranded, non-enveloped RNA virus with one serotype and four genotypes. Genotypes 1 and 2 are primarily found in developing countries and exclusively infect humans, while genotypes 3 and 4, common in industrialized countries, infect humans and other mammals, especially pigs. HEV is increasingly recognized as a zoonotic.