Hepatitis E Outbreak in Central African Republic
Author Information
Author(s): Escribà Josep M., Nakoune Emmanuel, Recio Carlos, Massamba Péguy-Martial, Matsika-Claquin Marcelle Diane, Goumba Charles, Rose Angela M.C., Nicand Elisabeth, García Elsa, Leklegban Cornelia, Koffi Boniface
Primary Institution: Médecins sans Frontières
Hypothesis
What factors contributed to the hepatitis E outbreak in the Central African Republic?
Conclusion
The hepatitis E outbreak in the Central African Republic was linked to unsafe drinking water and resulted in a significant number of cases and fatalities, particularly among pregnant women.
Supporting Evidence
- Of 715 suspected HEV case-patients recorded, 552 lived in the Begoua commune.
- The attack rate for the Begoua commune was 2.7%.
- Four of the confirmed case-patients died, resulting in a case-fatality ratio of 1.8%.
- Environmental testing showed the water from wells was unsafe to drink.
- Most patients reported jaundice (97.5%) and choluria (95.1%).
- Twenty-four percent of patients tested in a 1995 survey in Bangui had anti-HEV antibodies.
Takeaway
In Central African Republic, many people got sick from hepatitis E because they drank dirty water, and it was especially dangerous for pregnant women.
Methodology
Serum and stool samples were collected from jaundiced patients, and HEV markers were tested to confirm cases.
Limitations
Further surveillance was hindered by a military coup, and the study could not definitively conclude the effectiveness of interventions due to external factors.
Participant Demographics
Most patients were males (58%) and young adults (71% aged 14–45 years).
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website