Anti-HEV seroprevalence varies largely in dogs, cats, and horses in Germany

Background Hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype 3 infections in Germany are mainly transmitted zoonotically by consumption of swine meat. Furthermore, there is evidence that pets might get in contact with HEV but the relevance of pets as possible hosts of HEV in Germany still needs to be defined.

Methods In this study 365 serum samples of pets (124 dogs, 119 cats, and 122 horses) have been tested for HEV by PCR and for anti-HEV antibodies by a commercial seroassays, designed for the use in mammals (MP-assay).

Results The anti-HEV seroprevalence determined by the MP-assay varied largely between dogs (10%), cats (6%), and horses (2%). The difference between seroprevalence rates in dogs vs horses (p=0.01) reached statistical significance (Chi-square test). Anti-HEV ELISA OD values were significantly higher in dogs in comparison to cats (p=0.008) or horses (p<0.001) and in cats compared to horses (p=0.008, C, Mann-Whitney test). None of the pet serum samples tested PCR positive.

Conclusions This serological study suggests that dogs and eventually cats get infected with HEV in Germany with a relevant frequency, while horses are of minor relevance. Thus risk patients (e.g. transplant recipients) should be informed about dogs being a potential source of HEV infection.

Publication History

Article published online:
18 January 2023