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BackgroundAdvances in artificial intelligence are gradually transforming various fields, but its applicability among ordinary people is unknown. This study aims to explore the ability of a large language model to address Helicobacter pylori related questions.MethodsWe created several prompts on the basis of guidelines and the clinical concerns of patients. The capacity of ChatGPT on Helicobacter pylori queries was evaluated by experts. Ordinary people assessed the applicability.ResultsThe responses to each prompt in ChatGPT-4 were good in terms of response length and repeatability. There was good agreement in each dimension (Fleiss’ kappa ranged from 0.302 to 0.690, p

Introduction: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is global health problem. Family members of HBV infected people are considered as high-risk groups due to frequent household transmission of HBV among contacts of HBsAg carriers. The present study aimed to investigate the intrafamilial transmission of HBV among family members of HBV-infected persons and to identify the risk factors for viral transmission in these setting. Methods: 361 index cases and their 1083 family contacts were tested for markers of Hepatitis B, viz. HBsAg and HBcAb using commercial ELISA. The demographic details and risk factors for acquiring HBV infection among the family members were recorded using a structured questionnaire. Results: The median (IQR) age of index cases and family members was 37 (27 − 48) and 26 (14 − 38) years, respectively. Among the screened family members, 9.23% (n = 100) members were positive for HBsAg and 32.75% (n = 355) were positive for HBcAb. At least one member of the family was affected in 229/361 (63.43%) index cases. Significantly lower percent of household contacts (9.23%, n = 100)were vaccinated against HBV.HBV transmission risk was significantly higher in families with more than four members(p

The origin and intrafamilial transmission of Human T-Lymphotropic Virus Type 1 (HTLV-1) in non-endemic populations such as China is still unknown. In this study, donors from blood banks/centers in China (including 28 provinces and Shenzhen city) during 2019 and 2021 were screened for HTLV-1/2 antibody, and all the reactive samples were tested using a line immunoassay (LIA) and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Samples that can be detected using qPCR were amplified and sequenced for the long terminal repeat (LTR) region. The positive donors were contacted to identify their relatives. As a result, 4,451,883 blood donors were totally tested, and 50 of them were confirmed to be HTLV-1/2 positive. Viral LTR sequences genotyped from 26 HTLV-1 carriers demonstrated that all had the HTLV-1a genotype, of which Transcontinental and Japanese subgroups accounted for half each. There were 17 family members of 11 index donors detected, and the HTLV-1 infection rate in the spouses of male index donors (83.3%, 5/6) was significantly higher than that in the husbands of female index donors (0.0%, 0/4). However, 7 children of HTLV-1 positive women were tested and found negative. Therefore, our findings indicated that HTLV-1 is spreading silently fromhigh-endemic to low-endemic areas in China. To prevent further HTLV-1/2 transmission, an efficient HTLV-1/2 screening strategy and counseling of the virus carriers are essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is global health problem. Family members of HBV infected people are considered as high-risk groups due to frequent household transmission of HBV among contacts of HBsAg carriers. The present study aimed to investigate the intrafamilial transmission of HBV among family members of HBV-infected persons and to identify the risk factors for viral transmission in these setting. 361 index cases and their 1083 family contacts were tested for markers of Hepatitis B, viz. HBsAg and HBcAb using commercial ELISA. The demographic details and risk factors for acquiring HBV infection among the family members were recorded using a structured questionnaire. The median (IQR) age of index cases and family members was 37 (27 − 48) and 26 (14 − 38) years, respectively. Among the screened family members, 9.23% (n = 100) members were positive for HBsAg and 32.75% (n = 355) were positive for HBcAb. At least one member of the family was affected in 229/361 (63.43%) index cases. Significantly lower percent of household contacts (9.23%, n = 100)were vaccinated against HBV.HBV transmission risk was significantly higher in families with more than four members(p < 0.0001). Multinomial logistics regression analysis for familial risk factors for transmission of HBV such asclose contact with carrier (aOR overt: 1.172, aOR occult: 1.173), sharing of bed/bedding (aOR overt: 1.258, aOR occult:1.264), personal hygiene items (aOR overt:1.260, aOR occult: 1.451), and eating in common utensils (aOR overt: 2.182, aOR occult: 1.307)were significantly associated with the transmission of HBV (p < 0.05). Close contact with carrier, sharing of bed/bedding or personal hygiene items and eating in common utensils were significantly associated with the transmission of HBV. Increasing awareness about Hepatitis B infection and vaccination of family members in close contact with carrier is essential to prevent Hepatitis B transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report intrafamilial transmission of monkeypox virus to all members of a family (father, mother, and 2 children). Case reports in young children have been extremely rare during the 2022 mpox outbreak. Their clinical signs were mild, and clinical diagnosis would be difficult without knowledge of the father’s monkeypox virus infection.

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in children (contact subjects) of chronic HBsAg (index subjects) and to investigate the factors associated with this infection in these children. Patients and methods: this was a retrospective cross-sectional study of HBsAg positive patients (index subjects), whose families (contact subjects: spouses and children) were routinely screened for HBV infection. Results: The median age of our 44 subjects was 43.1 ± 7.49 years. The average number of children per index subject was 2.3 ± 1.1. The median age of the 92 children was 9.3± 4.55 (1 to 15 years) and 43 (44.8%) were vaccinated against HBV. The prevalence of HBV infection was 24%. The independent factors associated with HBV infection in children were HBV DNA for index subjects> 2000 IU/ml (OR = 11.5; p = 0.001), the existence of HBV in both parents (OR = 7.9; p = 0.03) and no HBV vaccination in children (OR = 30.9; p = 0.003). Conclusion: Immunization coverage of children of index subjects was insufficient. In addition to vertical transmission, the risk of intrafamilial transmission was high in the presence of at least one of the three associated factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Worldwide, the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is decreasing particularly in the vaccinated population. However, there are foci of increased transmission particularly in localized communities and within families. Objective: This study aimed at identifying HBV infection status among family members (FMs) of a cohort of HBsAg positive index cases (ICs) living in a village near Ismailia City, North-East Egypt. Design and participants: The study targeted ICs with chronic hepatitis B and their FMs. All were inquired for sociodemographic data, previous vaccination, kinship, and risk factors. All were tested for hepatitis markers and in HBcAb positive sera, HBV DNA and ALT were added. Results: The study included 96 participants including 14 ICs, 51 (53.1%) were females and 73 (76%) self-reported receiving hepatitis B vaccine after birth. Among 82 FMs, HBcAb was found in 49 (59.76%) of whom overt and occult HBV were diagnosed in 24 (49%) and 18 (36.7%). HBs Ag and HBcAb were more frequent in unvaccinated compared to vaccinated FMs; being 60.9% vs. 32.9% for HBsAg (p=0.017) and 91.3% vs. 57.5% for HBcAb (p=0.003). Among the FMs, active HBV were more related to male than female ICs (54.9% vs. 45.2%, p=0.73) while among children, it is more related to females more than male ICs (38.9% vs. 25%, p=0.33). In all HBsAg positive participants, HBeAg was negative and HBV DNA load was higher among female than male ICs (median 3500 vs. 2594.5 IU/mL, p=0.82). Conclusion: The study shows a high rate of HBV transmission among FMs of HBsAg carriers living in a remote area in North-East Egypt. Both overt and occult HBV infections were frequent despite previous vaccination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Advances in artificial intelligence are gradually transforming various fields, but its applicability among ordinary people is unknown. This study aims to explore the ability of a large language model to address Helicobacter pylori related questions., Methods: We created several prompts on the basis of guidelines and the clinical concerns of patients. The capacity of ChatGPT on Helicobacter pylori queries was evaluated by experts. Ordinary people assessed the applicability., Results: The responses to each prompt in ChatGPT-4 were good in terms of response length and repeatability. There was good agreement in each dimension (Fleiss' kappa ranged from 0.302 to 0.690, p  < 0.05). The accuracy, completeness, usefulness, comprehension and satisfaction scores of the experts were generally high. Rated usefulness and comprehension among ordinary people were significantly lower than expert, while medical students gave a relatively positive evaluation., Conclusion: ChatGPT-4 performs well in resolving Helicobacter pylori related questions. Large language models may become an excellent tool for medical students in the future, but still requires further research and validation., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Gao, Ge, Xu, Chen and Cai.)

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) can be transmitted within a family, but an interspousal transmission in elderly cases is rare and the change of viral quasispecies during the event is unclear. We experienced two acute hepatitis B males (AH1 and AH2, 67 and 71 years old, respectively) whose HBV was transmitted from their wives with chronic HBV infection (CH1 and CH2, 67 and 66 years old, respectively). To clarify the characteristics of HBV quasispecies in such cases, we performed long-read deep sequencing of HBV preS1/preS2/S domain using samples from the 2 couples. HBV full-genome sequences determined with direct sequencing showed that the HBV sequences belonged to subgenotype B1. AH1 was 98.0-99.2 % identical to CH1, and AH2 was 98.5-99.5 % identical to CH2, whereas the identity between AH1 and AH2 was 96.9 %. The long-read deep sequencing of amplicons including preS1/preS2/S domains with PacBio Sequel IIe showed the numbers of nucleotides with >5 % substitution frequencies in AH1, AH2, CH1 and CH2 were 0 (0 %), 4 (0.31 %), 39 (3.06 %) and 28 (2.20 %), respectively, indicating that CH1 and CH2 were more heterogeneous than AH1 and AH2. From a phylogenetic analysis based on the deep sequencing, minor CH1/CH2 clones that were close to AH1/AH2 clones were considered to be substantially distinct from the major populations in CH1/CH2. The major population formed during chronic infection under the immune pressure might not be suitable to establish new infection and this might be one of the reasons why the transmission had not occurred for a long time after marriage., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest All authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Japanese Society of Chemotherapy, Japanese Association for Infectious Diseases, and Japanese Society for Infection Prevention and Control. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background The aim of this study is to show that human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 2 (HTLV-2) infection produces symptoms resembling those described for HTLV-1-associated myeloneuropathy and to highlight the role of sexual transmission in the silent dissemination of HTLV-2. Methods Patient samples were tested by particle agglutination and indirect immunofluorescence assay. The HTLV type was defined by molecular techniques. Nucleotide sequence analysis of HTLV-2 long terminal repeat region, T cell CD3/CD4 and T cell CD3/CD8 counts and typing of human leucocyte antigen (HLA) alleles A, B, C and DRB1 were also performed. Results HTLV-2 subtype b infection was confirmed in two blood donors and their sexual partners. Two patients exhibited distinctive signs and symptoms of progressive neurological disease. Three infected patients carried HLA-C*04. Both patients with neurological disease also carried HLA-A*31 and HLA-DRB1*07 alleles. Conclusions Herein we describe for the first time sexual transmission of HTLV-2 in a non-endemic region of Argentina, highlighting the relevance of this transmission route in HTLV-2 silent dissemination out of the clusters of endemicity. We also provide evidence that HTLV-2 infection causes symptoms resembling those described for HTLV-1-associated myeloneuropathy. The evidence presented herein points to the critical need for public health strategies to reduce the spread of this neglected infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human T-lymphotropic virus 1 (HTLV-1) and 2 (HTLV-2) can be transmitted between humans by mechanisms associated with horizontal and vertical routes. Recently, high prevalence rates and levels of genetic diversity for HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 were detected among people who use illicit drugs (PWUDs) in the Brazilian state of Pará. None of the PWUDs with HTLV-1 or HTLV-2 were aware of their carrier condition of the retrovirus, and they ability to spread it to their family group, sexual partners, and other contacts. Thus, this study evaluated the presence of HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 in families of PWUDs in the state of Pará, in Northern Brazil. This descriptive study used convenience sampling and accessed 37 PWUDs and their respective families (n = 97) in 18 municipalities in the state of Pará, northern Brazil. All participants provided personal data and were tested for the presence of HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and western blotting. HTLV positive samples were selected for Nested-PCR, and viral genotyping by nucleotide sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. HTLV-1 or HTLV-2 infections were detected in 15 families of PWUDs: 27 family members of PWUDs were infected with HTLV-1 (27.8%) and another 20 of them with HTLV-2 (20.6%). Subtypes 1a [subgroup A (54.5%)], 2b (20.5%), and 2c (25.0%) were detected. High horizontal (76.9%) and vertical (61.4%) transmission rates of HTLV were ascertained. Factors that facilitate the acquisition and transmission of HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 were reported by the participants, such as long-term relationships, unprotected sex, breastfeeding, and lack of knowledge about the condition of being a carrier of the retrovirus. Evidence indicates intrafamilial transmission of HTLV from PWUDs to members of their respective families. Key interventions should urgently be employed for the control and prevention of HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 to reduce the spread of this retrovirus in PWUDs and the general population in Northern Brazil and elsewhere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human T-lymphotropic virus 1 (HTLV-1) and 2 (HTLV-2) can be transmitted between humans by mechanisms associated with horizontal and vertical routes. Recently, high prevalence rates and levels of genetic diversity for HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 were detected among people who use illicit drugs (PWUDs) in the Brazilian state of Pará. None of the PWUDs with HTLV-1 or HTLV-2 were aware of their carrier condition of the retrovirus, and they ability to spread it to their family group, sexual partners, and other contacts. Thus, this study evaluated the presence of HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 in families of PWUDs in the state of Pará, in Northern Brazil. This descriptive study used convenience sampling and accessed 37 PWUDs and their respective families (n = 97) in 18 municipalities in the state of Pará, northern Brazil. All participants provided personal data and were tested for the presence of HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and western blotting. HTLV positive samples were selected for Nested-PCR, and viral genotyping by nucleotide sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. HTLV-1 or HTLV-2 infections were detected in 15 families of PWUDs: 27 family members of PWUDs were infected with HTLV-1 (27.8%) and another 20 of them with HTLV-2 (20.6%). Subtypes 1a [subgroup A (54.5%)], 2b (20.5%), and 2c (25.0%) were detected. High horizontal (76.9%) and vertical (61.4%) transmission rates of HTLV were ascertained. Factors that facilitate the acquisition and transmission of HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 were reported by the participants, such as long-term relationships, unprotected sex, breastfeeding, and lack of knowledge about the condition of being a carrier of the retrovirus. Evidence indicates intrafamilial transmission of HTLV from PWUDs to members of their respective families. Key interventions should urgently be employed for the control and prevention of HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 to reduce the spread of this retrovirus in PWUDs and the general population in Northern Brazil and elsewhere.

Background: commensal Neisseria species are part of the oropharyngeal microbiome and play an important role in nitrate reduction and protecting against colonization by pathogenic bacteria. They do, however, also serve as a reservoir of antimicrobial resistance. Little is known about the prevalence of these species in the general population, how this varies by age and how antimicrobial susceptibility varies between species., Methods: we assessed the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of commensal Neisseria species in the parents (n = 38) and children (n = 50) of 35 families in Belgium., Results: various commensal Neisseria (n = 5) could be isolated from the participants. Most abundant were N. subflava and N. mucosa. Neisseria subflava was detected in 77 of 88 (87.5%) individuals and N. mucosa in 64 of 88 (72.7%). Neisseria mucosa was more prevalent in children [41/50 (82%)] than parents [23/38 (60.5%); P < .05], while N. bacilliformis was more prevalent in parents [7/36 (19.4%)] than children [2/50 (4%); P < .05]. Neisseria bacilliformis had high ceftriaxone minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs; median MIC 0.5 mg/l; IQR 0.38-0.75). The ceftriaxone MICs of all Neisseria isolates were higher in the parents than in the children. This could be explained by a higher prevalence of N. bacilliformis in the parents., Interpretation: the N. bacilliformis isolates had uniformly high ceftriaxone MICs which warrant further investigation., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of FEMS.)

The origin and intrafamilial transmission of Human T-Lymphotropic Virus Type 1 (HTLV-1) in non-endemic populations such as China is still unknown. In this study, donors from blood banks/centers in China (including 28 provinces and Shenzhen city) during 2019 and 2021 were screened for HTLV-1/2 antibody, and all the reactive samples were tested using a line immunoassay (LIA) and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Samples that can be detected using qPCR were amplified and sequenced for the long terminal repeat (LTR) region. The positive donors were contacted to identify their relatives. As a result, 4,451,883 blood donors were totally tested, and 50 of them were confirmed to be HTLV-1/2 positive. Viral LTR sequences genotyped from 26 HTLV-1 carriers demonstrated that all had the HTLV-1a genotype, of which Transcontinental and Japanese subgroups accounted for half each. There were 17 family members of 11 index donors detected, and the HTLV-1 infection rate in the spouses of male index donors (83.3%, 5/6) was significantly higher than that in the husbands of female index donors (0.0%, 0/4). However, 7 children of HTLV-1 positive women were tested and found negative. Therefore, our findings indicated that HTLV-1 is spreading silently from high-endemic to low-endemic areas in China. To prevent further HTLV-1/2 transmission, an efficient HTLV-1/2 screening strategy and counseling of the virus carriers are essential., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Ji, Chang, Yan, Sun, Liu and Wang.)

Independent epidemiology for respective human T‐cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV) types 1 and 2 is little known in blood donors in Brazil, where screening for HTLV‐1/2 is mandatory at blood banks, but no testing to confirm/differentiate these viruses. Therefore, this study aims to assess the prevalence of HTLV‐1 and ‐2 in a first‐time blood donor population in Northeastern Brazil and to carry out molecular characterization of respective isolates. A cross‐sectional study was conducted at the State Blood Bank in Piauí. Samples were screened for anti–HTLV‐1/2 by enzyme immunoassay, and reactive samples were confirmed using a line immunoassay and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Of 37 306 blood donors, 47 were anti–HTLV‐1/2 reactive by enzyme immunoassay. After confirmed by line immunoassay, 22 were positive for HTLV‐1 (0.59 per 1000; 95% CI: 0.38‐0.87), 14 were positive for HTLV‐2 (0.37 per 1000; 95% CI: 0.21‐0.61), 1 was indeterminate, and the remaining donors were negative. The HTLV‐1 infection was also confirmed by PCR in all anti–HTLV‐1‐positive samples, and sequencing classified these isolates as belonging to the Transcontinental (A) subgroup of the Cosmopolitan (1a) subtype. Of 14 anti–HTLV‐2‐positive samples, 11 were also PCR positive, which belonged to subtype a (HTLV‐2a/c). In addition, 38 family members of 5 HTLV‐1‐ and 3 HTLV‐2‐infected donors were analyzed. Familial transmission of HTLV‐1 and ‐2 was evidenced in 3 families. In conclusion, in Northeastern Brazil, where HTLV‐1 and ‐2 are endemic, counseling blood donor candidates and their families might play a key role in limiting the spread of these viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/AimsThe aims of the present study were to determine the outcomes of inactive hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers over a 10-year study period and to elucidate the HBV serological profile of their family members.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the medical files of inactive HBsAg carriers followed up at the Department of Infectious Diseases of Kocatepe University Medical Faculty Hospital between March 2001 and January 2011.ResultsIn total, 438 inactive HBsAg carriers were enrolled in this trial. The follow-up period was 33.7±22.5 months (mean±SD). Anti-hepatitis-B surface antibody seroconversion occurred in 0.7% of cases, while chronic hepatitis B was found in 0.5%. The anti-hepatitis-D virus (HDV) status was evaluated in 400 patients and anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) in 430. It was found that 1% and 0.2% were positive for anti-HDV and anti-HCV, respectively. HBV serology was investigated in at least 1 family member of 334/438 (76.3%) patients. The HBsAg positivity rate was 34.6% in 625 family members of 334 patients. A comparison of the HBsAg positivity rates in terms of HBV DNA levels in index cases revealed that HBsAg seropositivity rates were higher in family members of HBV DNA-negative patients than in family members of HBV DNA-positive cases (P=0.0001).ConclusionsThe HBsAg positivity rate was higher in family members of inactive HBsAg carriers than in the general population; these family members therefore have a higher risk of HBV transmission. Furthermore, despite negative HBV DNA levels, transmission risk was not reduced in these patients, and horizontal transmission seems to be independent of the HBV DNA value.

Objective. To determine intrafamilial seropositivity of HBV and HCV and to compare them in families of infected persons with HBV and HCV in Hamadan clinic of hepatitis.Material and methods. In this analytic cross-sectional study, 651 family members of 200 HBV and HCV infection index cases were entered into the study and after signing an informed consent, they were referred to Blood Transfusion Center. With completion of laboratory tests, interviewers filled the questionnaires.Results. One hundred and eighteen (20.5%) and 107 (18.6%) family members were HBsAg and HBcAb positive respectively. 21 (3.6%) were isolated HBcAb positive. Only one person (1.3%) was HCVAb positive. The general rate of infection in family members of HBV infected people (atleast one case) (49.4%) was significantly higher than that of HCV infected people (3.3%), p < 0.001. Interspouses transmission was evaluated and prevalence of interspouses HBV and HCV infection were 32.3 and 8%, respectively.Conclusion. Intrafamilial and interspousal seropositivity of HBV is obviously more than those of HCV. More attention should be paid to screening and risk lowering activities particularly about HBV infected people and their families.

Aim: Our aim was to survey the rate and risk factors for Hepatitis C virus interfamilial transmission among families with one index case. Background: The role of intrafamilial transmission in Hepatitis C virus epidemiology is still debated. Patients and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 34 families (236 members) of HCV infected patients from Fars province, spring to summer 2013. All subjects were first evaluated for the risk factors of exposure and then their serum was checked for the presence of HCV antibody and the genome, using ELISA and PCR. The genotype of all PCR positive cases was also determined by a commercial assay. Two independent sample t test and Chi-Square test were used to compare groups together. Results: In 18 out of 34 families, HCV antibody was detected (52.9%) in new members. Among them, HCV transmission in 11 families (32%) was also confirmed by PCR. Having a history of intravenous drug abuse (P=0.006) and incarceration (P=0.01) showed to be important risk factors for interfamilial transmission. Hence, blade/needle sharing (P=0.016) just following molecular assay and sex (P=036) only in the serologic analysis were also determined as significant risk factors. Furthermore, based on serologic results, medium socioeconomic state was further associated with this manner of transmission (P=0.019 and P=0.328). Interestingly, among relatives, 13 cases were brothers while just 5 cases were couples. The genotypes 3a and 1a were more prevalent among the population. Conclusion: In conclusion, our finding highlighted a noticeable role of interfamilial transmission for HCV spread and supports the significant role of close relatives, especially brother relationship in this spread. Hence, the socioeconomic state was associated with the transmission rate of virus in the family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis delta virus (HDV) occur worldwide and are prevalent in both urban and remote rural communities. In a remote village in Gabon, central Africa, we observed a high prevalence of HBsAg carriage and HDV infection, particularly in children and adolescents. The prevalence of HBsAg differed significantly by gender and age, females being more likely than males to carry the HBsAg during the first 10 years of life, while the prevalence was higher among males than females aged 11–20 years. We also characterised HBV and HDV strains circulating in the village. The principal HBV strains belonged to genotype HBV-E and subgenotype QS-A3. Complete genome analysis revealed for the first time the presence of the HBV-D genotype in Gabon, in the form of an HBV-D/E recombinant. Molecular analysis of HDV strains and their complete genomic characterisation revealed two distinct groups within the dominant HDV clade 8. Molecular analysis of HBV and HDV strains did not reveal vertical transmission within the families studied but rather horizontal, intrafamilial transmission among children aged 0–10 years. Our findings indicate that HBV is transmitted in early childhood by body fluids rather than by sexual contact. Health education adapted to the different age groups might therefore help to reduce HBV transmission. Young children should be vaccinated to control HBV infection in areas of extremely high prevalence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report intrafamilial transmission of monkeypox virus to all members of a family (father, mother, and 2 children). Case reports in young children have been extremely rare during the 2022 mpox outbreak. Their clinical signs were mild, and clinical diagnosis would be difficult without knowledge of the father's monkeypox virus infection.

We report a female patient with acute hepatitis B due to horizontal transmission of hepatitis B virus from her husband, who suffered from de novo hepatitis B. A 48-year-old man underwent peripheral blood stem cell transplantation ( PBSCT) for adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma. Nine months after the initial treatment, he was referred to our hospital because of jaundice. Laboratory data showed elevated serum aminotransferase levels and hepatitis B surface antigen ( HBsAg) positivity. We diagnosed de novo hepatitis B because a pre- PBSCT serum sample was negative for HBsAg and positive for anti-hepatitis B core antibody ( HBcAb). His liver function improved with entecavir therapy. Two months after his diagnosis of hepatitis B, his 31-year-old wife was admitted with fever and appetite loss. She was diagnosed with acute hepatitis B because of increased serum aminotransferase levels and HBsAg and immunoglobulin M HBcAb positivity. Sequencing of HBV DNA in the serum obtained from both patients showed 99.9% homology. Therefore, we diagnosed her acute hepatitis B as due to horizontal transmission of de novo hepatitis B from her husband. HBV derived from de novo hepatitis B should be considered a potential source of infection, although intrafamilial transmission of de novo hepatitis B is rare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is a common cause of hand, foot, and mouth disease and sometimes causes severe neurologic complications, mainly in children. We report a case of adult-onset encephalitis caused by intrafamilial transmission of a subgenogroup C4 strain of EV71. This case elucidates the risk for EV71 encephalitis even in adults.

When intrafamilial transmission of hepatitis B virus ( HBV) occurs, a virus with the same characteristics interacts with diverse hosts' immune systems and may thus result in different mutations to escape immune pressure. In this study, the HBV genomic characterization was assessed longitudinally after intrafamilial transmission using nucleotide sequence data of phylogenetic and mutational analyses, including those obtained by deep-sequencing for the first time. Furthermore, HBe Ag-anti- HBe profile and variability of HBV core-derived epitopes were also evaluated. Strong evidence was obtained from intrafamilial transmission of HBV genotype D1 by phylogenetic inferences. HBV isolates exhibited high degree (~99%) of genomic conservation for almost 20 years, when patients were persistently HBe Ag positive with normal amino transferase levels. This identity remained high among immune-tolerant siblings. In contrast, it diminished significantly ( P = 0.02) when the mother cleared HBe Ag (immune clearance phase). By deep-sequencing, the quantitative analysis of the dynamics of basal core promoter ( BCP) ( A1762 T, G1764 A; A1766 C; T1773 C; 8-bp deletion; and other) and precore ( G1896 A) variants among HBV isolates from family members exhibited differences during the follow-up. However, only those from the mother showed amino acid variations at core protein that would impair their MHC- II binding. Hence, when intrafamilial transmission occurs, HBV was highly conserved under the immune-tolerant phase, but it exhibited mutations more frequently during the immune clearance phase. The analysis of the HBV BCP and precore mutants after intrafamilial HBV transmission contributes to a better understanding of how they evolve over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The aim of this study was to assess and compare the spread of HBV infection in families with children who are diagnosed as chronic hepatitis B or are inactive carriers of HBV. A total of 570 patients aged 2–16 years and 2358 family members were included in the study. Patients were classified as inactive carriers (Group 1, 350 patients) or patients diagnosed as chronic active hepatitis B (Group 2, 220 patients). Demographic features of the families, HBV serological markers and routes of transmission were evaluated. Parental transmission was lower compared to nonparental transmission (34.8% and 65.1%, respectively). HBsAg positivity rate was found to be highest among mothers in both of the groups. HBeAg positivity and anti-HBs positivity were significantly higher in family members of Group 2. Transmission rates were significantly higher in families consisting of five or more members compared to families consisting of less than five members. HBsAg positivity of siblings was lowest when both parents were HbsAg negative and highest when both parents were HBsAg positive in both groups. A high risk of HBV transmission among mothers of HBsAg carriers and patients with chronic hepatitis B was demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article discusses the epidemiology of intrafamilial transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It mentions several modes of HBV transmission which include perinatal transmission, sexual transmission, and vertical transmission. Also mentioned are the major risk factors of developing HBV infections such as ear piercing, phlebotomy and rural life.

HCV-RNA in saliva of HCV patients provides a biological basis for its potential transmission. HCV viremia is particularly high in HCV patients on hemodialysis. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of HCV in saliva of HCV patients with and without renal failure, and the possible role of intrafamilial transmission of the virus. Twenty HCV patients were enrolled in this study. They were divided into two groups: 10 HCVinfected patients without renal failure (Group I) and 10 with renal failure (Group II). Detection of HCV-RNA by quantitative RT-PCR in serum and saliva of both groups was done. Thirty-eight family members of both groups were included for the detection of serum HCV antibody. The percentage of the saliva-positive patients for HCV was significantly higher in the renal failure group (70%) than the other group (40%) (p<0.05). There was insignificant statistical difference between the two groups as regards infectivity to their family contacts. Also there was insignificant correlation between the level of viremia and the intra familial transmission with a mean + SD (9,33,250 +24,501) in negative relatives and a mean + SD(79,912+26,879) in positive relatives (p> 0.05). But a significant correlation was revealed between the level of viremia and saliva positivity, with a mean + SD(12,95,666 + 1792) in saliva-positive patients and a mean +SD (3,74,465 + 2150) in saliva-negative patients (p< 0.05). There was a highly significant difference between infectivity of HCV saliva-positive patients and saliva-negative patients to their family contacts (p< 0.001). Conclusion: Increased percentage of HCV detection in saliva of HCV patients with renal failure on HD may cause spreading of HCV in HD units among RF patients. Also there was increased percentage of interfamilial infectivity among the saliva-positive patients to their relatives and this suggests that saliva might have an infective role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Salmonella spp. are among the most frequently encountered bacterial pathogens in children adopted abroad, especially from developing countries. The aim of this study was to investigate the carriage of Salmonella in international adoptees over an 84 month period. This screening programme was initiated after serious infections occurred in adopted children. Material and methods Stool samples taken at the first visit to the outpatient adoption practice and subsequently every month from children adopted from an orphanage in Bamako (Mali) and from all members of their adoptive families were screened for Salmonella. Bacteria were characterized by standard biochemical methods, serotyping, disc diffusion antibiograms and PFGE. β-Lactamase genes were sought by PCR. Results Over the study period, 55 families that adopted 61 children from the state orphanage of Bamako were surveyed. Ninety-two Salmonella spp. were isolated from faecal samples from 30 families that had adopted a child. The isolates were all identified as Salmonella enterica of different serovars, Babelsberg and Enteritidis being the most prevalent. PFGE classified the Salmonella isolates into nine genotypic profiles matching with their serovar. Of the 41 non-duplicate isolates, 8 were susceptible to all tested antibiotics and 26 Salmonella isolates produced an extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL). PCR and DNA sequencing revealed that all the ESBL-producing isolates harboured the blaTEM-1 gene, 21 isolates harboured in addition the blaSHV-12 gene and the 5 remaining isolates harboured the blaCTX-M-15 gene. Conclusions International adoption may contribute to the global emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant Salmonella. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: Background: The prevalence of anti-HCV in the population of a village, which is located in China''s Putian County, was 28.9%. Objective: To investigate whether intrafamilial transmission is the main cause of the high prevalence of HCV infection in the village. Study design: This study surveyed the prevalence of anti-HCV antibody and HCV RNA and analyzed the risk factors for infection. Twenty-seven families consisting of 2 or more cases who were HCV RNA-positive were selected. Genotyping of HCV isolates was performed using a restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of 5′-NCR. The identity of the nucleotide sequence, the Kimura distance, and the phylogenetic trees between HCV 1b isolates from the same family were compared with that from different families using BioEdit and MEGA4.0 software. Results: Of 303 anti-HCV-positive subjects, 113 subjects were HCV RNA-positive. The frequency of some risk factors was significantly different between HCV RNA-positive and anti-HCV-negative subjects. Twenty-two pairs had subjects who were both infected with genotype 1b strains. The sequence identities between the 2 isolates from the family pairs ranged from 78.9% to 98.5% for HVR1 and from 92.4% to 97.6% for NS5B, which were not higher than the pairs from different families. The Kimura distances for family pairs ranged from 0.014 to 0.357 for HVR1 and from 0.024 to 0.081 for NS5B. They were not shorter than that from non-family pairs. Only 2 family pairs clustered in the same branch in the dendrogram obtained with NS5B sequences. Conclusions: Intrafamilial HCV transmission is not the main cause of the high prevalence of HCV infection in the village. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections are endemic in Korea. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of HBsAg positivity in Korea and to evaluate the changes in intrafamilial transmission after introduction of HBV vaccination in 1983. This study was based on the 2001 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. A total of 2512 study subjects, aged 10-29 years, were selected from across Korea using a stratified multi-stage probability sampling design. To identify the changes in intrafamilial transmission after the introduction of the HBV vaccination programme, 1850 subjects with parental serological markers were selected. These subjects were then grouped into two birth cohorts (cohort 1: born before 1983; cohort 2: born after 1983). Appropriate sampling weights were used for all analyses. The weighted age-specific prevalence of HBsAg was 4.9% in participants in their 20s and 1.9% in adolescents ; the combined weighted prevalence was 3.2%. Of subjects with HBsAg positivity in either parent, 17.5% were HBsAg-seropositive. Of subjects with two HBsAg-negative parents, 1.5% were HBsAg-seropositive. The HBsAg positivity rate of offspring with HBsAg-positive mothers was higher than those with HBsAg-positive fathers (27.3% vs. 4.8%, P<0.001). The weighted HBsAg positivity rate of offspring with HBsAg-negative mothers was 2.3% for cohort 1 and 0.4% for cohort 2 (P<0.01), and for those offspring with HBsAg-positive mothers it was also significantly decreased compared to cohorts 1 and 2 (40.2% vs. 16.4%, P<0.01). However, the weighted HBsAg positivity rate of offspring with HBsAg-positive mothers was still high. Our results showed that introduction of HBV vaccination has resulted in a decline in the overall HBsAg positivity rate and a reduction in intrafamilial transmission in [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A population-based sero-epidemiological study enrolled 9486 volunteers in two governorates, Béja in the north and Tataouine in the south of Tunisia, in order to assess the magnitude of HBV transmission heterogeneity between the north and the south and within the same governorate, as well as the risk factors associated with infection and chronic carriage. Results: The overall prevalence of anti-HBc, HBsAg and chronic carriage was 28.5, 5.3 and 2.9%, respectively. Significant differences were observed between the two governorates according to anti-HBc (32.1% in Béja and 27.8% in Tataouine; p =0.005) and HBsAg prevalence (4.2% in Béja and 5.6% in Tataouine; p =0.001). Significant differences were noticed between districts revealing important heterogeneity in HBV transmission within the same governorate (HBsAg ranged from 12 to <2% within the same governorate). At the individual level, the presence of a family member infected with HBV, scarification practices, needle practices in the Primary Care Center and gender (male) significantly increased the risk of anti-Hbc, HBsAg positivity and chronic carriage of infection while existence of sanitation in the house was found to be protective. The basic reproductive number and the force of infection confirmed the heterogeneity of transmission. Horizontal transmission within the family explains hyperendemic clusters in Tunisia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: To estimate hepatitis C virus (HCV) incidence rates and identify risk factors for current HCV transmission with emphasis on the role of living with infected household family members in rural Egypt. Methods: A 4-year population-based, cohort study of seronegative villagers was conducted to identify incident HCV seroconversion cases. A risk factor questionnaire and blood samples for anti-HCV EIA-3 and HCV RNA polymerase chain reaction testing were collected at two rounds of follow-up. Incidence rates, relative risks and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated based on a Poisson distribution. A matched case–control analysis to explore specific behavioural predictors of infection was conducted and odds ratios were obtained by conditional logistic regression. Results: Twenty-five participants (11 females) seroconverted in 10 578 person years of follow-up (PY), (incidence rate of 2.4/1000 PY; 95% CI: 1.6–3.5). The median age at seroconversion was 26 years [interquartile range (IQR) 19–35] among males and 20 years (IQR 13–24) among females. The only significant risk factor identified for these cases was receiving injections [adjusted odds ratio (ORadj)=3.3; 95% CI: 1.1–9.8]. Two of the 17 viraemic seroconvertors were infected with the same strain as at least one of their family members. Conclusion: This study identified the important role of injections in spreading HCV infection in this rural community. National healthcare awareness and infection control programmes should be strengthened to prevent further transmission. Screening of families of infected HCV subjects should be an essential part of case management for early detection and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: In order to clarify the sources of chronic HBV (hepatitis B virus) infection in children after the implementation of an “at-risk” strategy in Japan, chronically infected children were assessed. In addition, chronically infected children born to HBsAg-negative mothers and their family members were assessed to identify the sources of HBV transmission. Methods: Fifty-seven children who tested HBsAg-positive after the initiation of a mother-to-child transmission prevention program were enrolled in this study. The full-genome HBV DNA sequence was analyzed to confirm the transmission sources. Results: Of the 57 patients, 37 (65%) were born to HBV carrier mothers. The remaining 20 (35%) patients were born to HBsAg-negative mothers. Fourteen of these patients had HBV carrier fathers, and 2 patients, who were siblings, did not have an HBV carrier father. The remaining 4 patients had no family members with HBV infection. Phylogenetic tree analysis confirmed that father-to-child transmission and sibling-to-sibling transmission occurred in 3 families and 1 family, respectively. Conclusion: Although vaccine failure of mother-to-child transmission was the major cause of chronic HBV infection in children, father-to-child transmission was the second most common mode of transmission. In addition, sibling-to-sibling transmission was found. Unless at-risk individuals and groups can be accurately identified to prevent horizontal transmission, the introduction of universal vaccination is essential for achieving the elimination of HBV infection in Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatitis B is endemic in the Amazon region. Methods: Serological markers for hepatitis B virus (HBV) were determined in 266 household members for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-positive women (G1) and 395 household members for HBsAg-negative women (G2), randomly selected in Acre State Women’s Medical Care Program, in order to evaluate the prevalence of HBV in this population. Before blood sample collection an epidemiological questionnaire was applied. Results: The overall prevalence of HBV carriers (HBsAg) and exposed individuals (anti-HBc, IgG) was, respectively, 21.1% and 60.5% in G1 and 2.8% and 27.4% in G2 ( P < 0.0000001). The frequency of HBsAg was higher among siblings from group G1 (75%) compared to the absence of any HBsAg-positive sibling in G2 ( P < 0.00006). The HBV markers in other family members was as follows: G1 parents, 27.3% vs 4.5% ( P < 0.03), sexual partners, 21.1% vs 2.5% ( P < 0.04), and offspring, 10.4% vs 1.5% ( P < 0.04). A low prevalence of HBsAg and anti-HBc (IgG) was observed for the last offspring of G2 mothers compared to the high prevalence among children of G1 mothers (0% vs 18.2%, P < 0.01 and 2.3% vs 59.1%, P < 0.0000005, respectively), with children younger than 1 year being the most affected. The frequency of the habit of sharing toothbrushes and the presence of at least one HBsAg carrier were higher in G1 than in G2 ( P < 0.0001 and P < 0.000002), respectively. Genotypes A, D and G were found to be predominant by Innolipa test. There were cases that reacted to more than one genotype. Conclusion: Intrafamilial transmission of HBV is evident in the present study and is possibly associated with the presence of more than one HBV carrier in the family and the shared use of toothbrushes among household contacts. Genotype analysis confirms intrafamilial transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background. Clarithromycin-resistant Helicobacter pylori (CRHP) is increasing worldwide. Clarithromycin resistance in H . pylori from familial members has not been investigated. Materials and Methods. Biopsy specimens were taken from 13 families living in Tokyo, Yokohama, and Niigata between 1998 and 2001. Drug resistance was tested with the replica plating method. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of antimicrobial agents for H . pylori strains were determined by the agar dilution method. Molecular analyses of H . pylori strains were performed by ribosomal RNA gene restriction pattern analysis. The DNA region, associated with clarithromycin resistance, was analyzed by PCR and sequencing. Results. Helicobacter pylori strains isolated from a 5-year-old-son displayed clarithromycin resistance with a mutation (A → G at position 2143) in the 23S ribosomal RNA, whereas H . pylori strains from his parents did not. DNA analyses revealed that the boy was infected with his father's strain. The boy had repeatedly developed otitis media and received clarithromycin since the age of 2 years. Studies on an additional 12 families demonstrated that clarithromycin resistance in the children's strains reached 42.9% and was significantly higher than those of H . pylori strains from their parents (0%) or from adult patients (11.1%) (p < .05). Conclusions. The rate of clarithromycin resistance in H . pylori strains from Japanese children was extremely high, in contrast to those from their parents or adult patients. Prior history of clarithromycin usage in a child suggested development of clarithromycin resistance in resident H . pylori , which was originated from a parent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Household contacts of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-positive patients are considered at increased risk of HCV infection. This cross-sectional study during April through June 1999 assessed the prevalence and risk behaviours associated with HCV seropositivity among the household contacts of HCV seropositive thalassaemic children in Karachi, Pakistan. Among the 341 household contacts of 86 thalassaemic HCV seropositive children who were tested, 70 (20.5%) were positive for anti-HCV antibodies. The stratified analysis showed that HCV seroprevalence among the contacts did not differ significantly by the gender of the index patient and the type of relationship of contact with the index patient. However, HCV seroprevalences among the fathers and mothers of male index patients was substantially higher compared to those of female index patients. HCV RNA was recovered and genotyped from nine index patients and corresponding nine HCV-seropositive household contacts. HCV genotype 3a and 3b were found in 89% (8/9) and 11% (1/9) of the pairs, respectively. The final multivariable conditional logistic regression model revealed that after adjusting for the effect of ethnicity and past hospital admission history, the HCV-seropositive household contacts were more likely than HCV seronegative household contacts to have been bitten by the carrier [adjusted matched odds ratio (mOR)=2.6, 95% CI 1.3–5.2] or have shared a toothbrush with the carrier (adjusted mOR=8.2; 95% CI 1.56–43.5). Control efforts should focus on the risk behaviours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we examined whether the transmission of Helicobacter pylori occurred in married couples. We also examined whether a correlation existed between H. pylori seropositivity in a parent and an offspring, which may be related to H. pylori transmission. A cross-sectional study of residents living in a rural area in Japan was conducted in 1998. The study population consisted of 1910 volunteers, aged from 22 to 79 years, residing in this area. We serologically confirmed the presence of the antigen, CagA (cytotoxin-associated gene A), of H. pylori, using a recombinant CagA antigen, in addition to examining for antibodies to H. pylori, as determined by an IgG-specific enzyme immunoassay. The data were analyzed using logistic regression models. A significant association of H. pylori seropositivity was observed ( P < 0.001) in married couples, but no significant difference with respect to the presence of anti-CagA antibodies was observed in the married couples with H. pylori seropositive results ( P = 0.053). The odds ratio was 8.08 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.39–40.05) for infection in offspring with seropositive mothers and 2.93 (95% CI, 0.25–33.85) for infection in offspring with seropositive fathers when compared with seronegative fathers or mothers as the reference. There was a concordance between the presence or absence of anti-CagA antibodies in 11 of 13 groups of mothers and offspring (84.6%) compared with concordance in 6 of 14 groups of fathers and offspring (42.9%; P < 0.05). Our results suggest that maternal influence is likely to be more powerful than paternal influence in the transmission of H. pylori. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) is one of the worldwide concerns of antimicrobial chemotherapy. An accumulation of ten patients in five families (A–E) suffering from skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI) of CA-MRSA was experienced in 2012, in Fuchu-shi, Tokyo, Japan. Molecular epidemiological investigation was performed for the 10 MRSA strains obtained from 8 children and 2 of their parents to assess endemic patterns of CA-MRSA in the community. Results of molecular typing, presence of toxin genes and antimicrobial susceptibilities were analyzed combined with the patients' clinical information. Each family had its own unique MRSA strain: A, ST30-SCC mec IVd; B, ST8-SCC mec IVd; C, ST8-SCC mec IVa; D, ST8-SCC mec IVl; E, ST8-SCC mec IVl and ST858-SCC mec IVl. Seven strains from the families A–C carried Panton-Valentine leukocidin gene. Three strains from the families D and E carried toxic shock syndrome toxin gene. Strains belonged to the same family demonstrated genetically related banding patterns of pulsed-filed gel electrophoresis. The family C experienced intrafamilial transmission of USA300-0114. Our data showed the MRSA clones disseminating in this community were highly diverse. They contained USA300-0114 clone, the rapidly distributing clone in the world, as well as MRSA clones identified in Japan. Our results suggested intrafamilial transmission of MRSA could be initial phenomenon of wide transmission in a community, therefore CA-MRSA SSTI in children and their family members should be monitored closely in order to notice the spread of highly pathogenic and transmittable strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in children (contact subjects) of chronic HBsAg (index subjects) and to investigate the factors associated with this infection in these children., Patients and Methods: this was a retrospective cross-sectional study of HBsAg positive patients (index subjects), whose families (contact subjects: spouses and children) were routinely screened for HBV infection., Results: The median age of our 44 subjects was 43.1 ± 7.49 years. The average number of children per index subject was 2.3 ± 1.1. The median age of the 92 children was 9.3± 4.55 (1 to 15 years) and 43 (44.8%) were vaccinated against HBV. The prevalence of HBV infection was 24%. The independent factors associated with HBV infection in children were HBV DNA for index subjects> 2000 IU/ml (OR = 11.5; p = 0.001), the existence of HBV in both parents (OR = 7.9; p = 0.03) and no HBV vaccination in children (OR = 30.9; p = 0.003)., Conclusion: Immunization coverage of children of index subjects was insufficient. In addition to vertical transmission, the risk of intrafamilial transmission was high in the presence of at least one of the three associated factors., (Le comité de rédaction se réserve le droit de renvoyer aux auteurs avant toute soumission à l'avis des lecteurs les manuscrits qui ne seraient pas conformes à ces modalités de présentation. En outre il leur conseille de conserver un exemplaire du manuscrit, des figures et des tableaux.)

Background/aims: To understand the intrafamilial transmission and the existing risk factors related to HCV infection in subjects confirmed anti-HCV positive, their sexual partners and household contacts in Friuli, North-East Italy. Methods: We enrolled all the subjects that were consecutively identified as HCV positive during routine laboratory testing in six health districts and their household contacts. From each subject we obtained a blood sample, demographic data and a medical history including the existence of risk factors for HCV. Antibodies to HCV were detected employing a commercially available second-generation enzyme immunoassay (EIA); positive serum specimens were retested using a second-generation recombinant immunoblot assay (RIBA-2). Results: We recruited 743 subjects, 229 first subjects identified as HCV positive and 514 household contacts. There were no statistically significant differences in positivity among household contacts. Analysing intracouple transmission we found no significant differences by gender in couples both with and without parenteral risk factors. We found, both with univariate and multivariate analysis, as statistically significant risk factors in all the subjects: age older than 60, blood transfusions (particularly those performed before 1984), surgical procedures such as abortion and/or uterine curettage, history of HBV infection, intravenous drug use, and tattooing. Conclusions: Our results stress the low relevance of sexual transmission in the intrafamilial context, the importance of abortion and/or uterine curettage, the important role of blood transfusions in the past, a higher prevalence of HCV infection within a household of a HCV positive member compared to all other existing data in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the intrafamilial transmission of hepatitis C virus (HCV), 36 family members of 16 patients with anti-HCV (anti-C100-3)-positive chronic liver disease were screened for anti-HCV by an enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Clusters of anti-HCV -positive individuals were observed in 2 of 16 families (12.5%). Four of 35 family members (11.4%) with no history of blood transfusion were positive for anti-HCV. Two of 17 offspring (11.8%) of anti-HCV-positive females were positive for anti-HCV, while 1 of 5 spouses (20.0%) was positive for anti-HCV. These data suggest that intrafamilial transmission is one of the possible routes of infection for HCV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]