Emerging Infectious Diseases (May 2022)

Viral Hepatitis E Outbreaks in Refugees and Internally Displaced Populations, sub-Saharan Africa, 2010–2020

  • Angel N. Desai,
  • Amir M. Mohareb,
  • Mubarak Mustafa Elkarsany,
  • Hailemichael Desalegn,
  • Lawrence C. Madoff,
  • Britta Lassmann

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3201/eid2805.212546
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 28, no. 5
pp. 1074 – 1076

Abstract

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Hepatitis E virus is a common cause of acute viral hepatitis. We analyzed reports of hepatitis E outbreaks among forcibly displaced populations in sub-Saharan Africa during 2010–2020. Twelve independent outbreaks occurred, and >30,000 cases were reported. Transmission was attributed to poor sanitation and overcrowding.

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