Seroprevalence of Hepatitis E Genotype-3 in Camels Found at Antemortem Unit of Katsina Metropolitan Abattoir and Hamceta District of Mani LGA, Katsina State, Nigeria

Abstract

Hepatitis E genotype-3 is an important emerging viral zoonosis reported in many developed and developing countries. The disease has been reported with life threatening conditions particularly amongst immune compromised patients and pregnant women. A cross-sectional study was carried out in Katsina Metropolitan Abattoir and Hamceta District of Mani LGA to determine the prevalence of HEV-3 antibodies and its association with demographic variables such as age, sex, species, breeds and source of drinking water, 386 camels were sampled. Blood samples were collected and screened for HEV-3 antibodies using Indirect Enzyme Linked Immune sorbent Assay (ELISA) that detects IgG produced against the capsid proteins of the virus. The prevalence rates of 3.9% (15/386) in camel was recorded and statistical analysis showed no significant association between the infection and with breeds (p=1.00), sex (p=0.77), age (p=0.99) and source of drinking water (p=0.057) in camels. This study revealed the evidence of HEV-3 infection in animals in Katsina State. This shows the need to enlighten livestock farmers and abattoir workers on the zoonotic potential of HEV-3. Agencies concerned with safeguarding animal and public health need to consider HEV-3 in their disease monitoring and surveillance programmes. Further studies need to be done on isolation and molecular characterization of the virus in livestock and humans.