Equine Hepacivirus: A Systematic Review and a Meta-Analysis of Serological and Biomolecular Prevalence and a Phylogenetic Update.
Authors: Pacchiarotti Giulia, Nardini Roberto, Scicluna Maria Teresa
Journal: Animals : an open access journal from MDPI
Summary
Equine Hepacivirus (EqHV), an RNA virus within the Flaviviridae family, has emerged as an important concern in equine practice since its discovery, particularly given its structural similarity to human hepatitis C virus and its potential to establish chronic infection despite often remaining subclinical. Pacchiarotti and colleagues conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of available literature to characterise EqHV epidemiology, immunological responses, diagnostics and risk factors, synthesising serological and biomolecular prevalence data whilst providing phylogenetic classification aligned with PRISMA guidelines. The meta-analysis revealed considerable geographical variation in EqHV prevalence, with implications for blood product safety and transfusion protocols in veterinary settings. Key practical considerations include implementing rigorous screening of donor animals before blood collection, understanding regional prevalence patterns to inform risk assessment, and recognising that serological evidence of EqHV exposure is common in some populations despite the typically subclinical nature of infection. This comprehensive phylogenetic update and prevalence summary provides equine professionals with evidence-based benchmarks for clinical decision-making around blood product management and offers a foundation for further investigation into transmission routes and protective immunity.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Screen blood donors for EqHV serology and/or molecular markers before transfusion to reduce risk of viral transmission through blood products
- •Understand that infected horses may show no clinical signs while remaining infectious; implement biosecurity protocols accordingly
- •Stay informed on EqHV epidemiology and risk factors in your region, as prevalence data now available from this meta-analysis can guide herd health decisions
Key Findings
- •EqHV is the closest known relative to human HCV and has been reported worldwide in horse populations
- •Meta-analysis synthesizes serological and biomolecular prevalence data across multiple studies to establish epidemiological benchmarks
- •Updated phylogenetic analysis provides current understanding of EqHV genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships
- •EqHV can cause subclinical to chronic hepatitis in horses, with relevance to blood product safety in veterinary transfusion practices