Hepatitis E in Southeast Asia

Abstract

Hepatitis E is a major cause of acute viral hepatitis in the world. The causative agent of hepatitis E is hepatitis E virus (HEV). In Southeast Asia, the seroprevalence of HEV and the most prevalent genotype of HEV are largely unclear and the available data is either limited or outdated. After a systematic review of literature, we found the seroprevalence of HEV and the most prevalent genotype of HEV appear to vary greatly by countries. The seroprevalence is likely between 17% to 42% and the prevalent genotypes across Southeast Asia are likely 1, 3, and 4, but not 2 as no cases of genotype 2 have been reported in this region. As HEV remains widespread in Southeast Asia and the clinical implications of HEV can be severe, surveillance programs for HEV should be implemented.