Increasing contact with hepatitis E virus in red deer, Spain

Abstract

To describe the epidemiology of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in red deer in mainland Spain, we tested red deer for HEV RNA and antibodies. Overall, 10.4% and 13.6% of serum samples were positive by ELISA and reverse transcription-PCR, respectively. The increasing prevalence suggests a potential risk for humans.

Figure

The 5 peninsular bioregions (nos. 1–5) and the 21 sampling sites, Spain. Pie charts indicate local prevalence (in gray). Numbers indicate positive animals/sampled animals. Broken line borders indicate open sites; solid lines indicate fenced estates; asterisks indicate the 2 red deer farms.