Increased risk of hepatitis E in sewage workers from India

J Occup Environ Med. 2003 Nov;45(11):1167-70. doi: 10.1097/01.jom.0000088874.43855.2f.

Abstract

Considering feco-oral transmission of hepatitis E virus (HEV), the risk of the infection was assessed among sewage workers. On the basis of the close contact with sewage, the participants (n = 147) were divided into sewage workers (n = 92) and others (n = 55); none used personal protective equipment (eg, coveralls, boots, gloves) Age-matched individuals from lower socioeconomic status and without any exposure to sewage were used as controls. IgG-anti-HEV positivity in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was significantly higher (P < 0.01) among staff members (83/147, 56.5%) than the controls (19%). A significant rise in anti-HEV positivity (P < 0.05) was recorded in sewage workers working for >5 years. Multivariate regression analysis identified contact with sewage as the independent variable associated with anti-HEV positivity. Strict adherence to good working practices must take top priority for protection of these workers from sewage pathogens.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
  • Female
  • Hepatitis Antibodies / blood*
  • Hepatitis E / etiology*
  • Hepatitis E / immunology
  • Hepatitis E virus / immunology*
  • Humans
  • India
  • Male
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Risk Factors
  • Sewage / adverse effects*
  • Social Class

Substances

  • Hepatitis Antibodies
  • Sewage