Seroepidemiological investigation of hepatitis E in the region of Huzhou

Objective The present investigation was conducted to gain insight into the seroepidemiological characteristics and the infection rate of hepatitis E among the natural population in Huzhou city. Methods The Huzhou City is divided as three parts, which are plain water villages, mountain areas and towns, and 1666 people were randomly selected as participants from the whole population in Huzhou City. ELISA methods were used to test the HEVIgG antibody of hepatitis E in the serum and investigate relevant risk factors at the same time. Results 749 participants were found to be positive for HEV-IgG antibody, with the total infection rate of HEV being 44.96%, and the standardized infection rate 38.88%. The infection rate of HEV was significantly higher in towns and plain water villages than in mountain areas. The rate increased with age, with a family predisposition for the disease perceived. Conclusion The infection rate of hepatitis E is high in Huzhou City, which increases with age, and there are many cases of sub-clinicalinfection.