Abstract
Background: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is highly endemic in several African countries with high mortality rate among pregnant women. The prevalence of HEV in Niger among pregnant women is unknown. We hereby aim to report the prevalence and risk factors of HEV among pregnant women in Niamey, Niger.
Methods: Blood samples were collected from pregnant women attending antenatal consultation in three selected Health centers in Niamey. Data were collected for socio demographic characteristics using a structured questionnaire. Samples were tested using ELISA and qRT-PCR for anti- HEV IgM and RNA detection respectively. HEV associated risk factors were determined using multivariate logistic regression models.
Results: A total of 491 pregnant women were enrolled with mean age of 26.5 years. The prevalence of anti-HEV IgM antibodies was 17.1%, while HEV RNA was detected in 3.46% of participants, indicating recent and active HEV infection. Anti-HEV IgM seropositivity was more frequent among women aged 26–30 years and those in the third trimester of pregnancy. Gravidity was significantly associated with HEV RNA positivity (p = 0.032). In multivariable analysis, the use of well water was independently associated with HEV infection (aOR = 75.70; 95% CI: 1.23–4643.20; p = 0.039).
Conclusion: In view of the high seroprevalence of HEV among pregnant women, preventive measures including hygiene sensitization should be prioritized. Further studies should be conducted to assess the real impact of HEV infection on maternal and fetal health.