Phylogenetic analysis of hepatitis E virus sequences in Eastern India: genetic diversity, subtypes with varying degree of liver failure

genotype 3, one case of HEV genotype 4 infection imported from Corsica was documented. HepE incidence in RF was 0.06 and 0.08 per 100 000 in 2013 and 2014, respectively. HepE cases were reported in 25 of 86 regions of RF. The highest case number was reported in Belgorod region. In this region hepE incidence started to increase since 2010 and reached the maximum rates 4.3 per 100 000 in 2012. Since then, incidence started to decrease in the region with 2.15 and 1.1 per 100 000 in 2013 and 2014, respectively. Interestingly, hepA incidence decreased in Belgorod region within last 5 years. High homology (>95%) between swine and human HEV genotype 3 was observed in this region suggesting pigs as a main HEV reservoir for humans in this region. CONCLUSIONS: HEV circulates in RF with different epidemic process intensity observed in different parts of country. The temporary rise of sporadic hepE incidence was identified in region where pig breeding is concentrated. Together with data from HEV sequences analysis this data confirm the role of pigs as a reservoir for preservation and dissemination of HEV in humans.