Transmission Dynamics of Hepatitis E Among Swine
Author Information
Author(s): Satou Kunio, Nishiura Hiroshi
Primary Institution: National Institute of Animal Health, Japan
Hypothesis
What are the transmission dynamics of hepatitis E virus (HEV) among swine and its potential impact on human infection?
Conclusion
The study suggests that a decline in the force of infection could increase the risk of pig-to-human transmission.
Supporting Evidence
- The average age at infection was estimated to be between 59.0 and 67.3 days.
- More than 95% of pigs are infected before the age of 150 days.
- The basic reproduction number, R0, was estimated to be between 4.02 and 5.17.
Takeaway
Pigs can get sick from a virus called hepatitis E, and if fewer pigs get sick, it might make it easier for people to catch it from them.
Methodology
The study reanalyzed seroprevalence survey data from Japanese pig farms to estimate the force of infection and the basic reproduction number.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the limited data collection frequency and the assumptions made in the model.
Limitations
The model relies on several assumptions and the precision of the observed data is limited.
Participant Demographics
Pigs from three geographic locations in Japan: Hokkaido, Honshu, and Kyushu.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 3.17, 3.75
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website