First Serological Evidence on Endemicity of HEV Infection in Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) Populations from Portugal (original) (raw)

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection prevalence was investigated in wild boar populations in Portugal, focusing on animals hunted in the districts of Santarém and Portalegre. Blood samples from 29 wild boars were tested for HEV antibodies using a double antigen sandwich ELISA. Results indicated a seroprevalence of 14%, with no significant differences between the two districts. The findings suggest the presence of past or ongoing HEV infection in wild boars, highlighting the possible zoonotic risk associated with hunting and consumption of these animals.