Genetic Epidemiology of Hepatitis B Virus in Africa: A Review.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an enveloped and hepatotoxic virus belonging to the hepadnaviridae family, and it has the potential to cause both acute and chronic hepatitis. HBV remains a major public health threat, particularly in Asia, Africa, and South America, resulting in several deaths even though there is currently a safe vaccine against it.

METHODS

This systematic review examined the geographic distribution of HBV genotypes across Africa. We conducted a literature search on the major databases using key search strategies and a thorough combination of terms for HBV genotype distribution, from January 1, 2014, to January 31, 2025.

RESULTS

The findings revealed varying HBV genetic diversity in African regions, with some studies demonstrating similar or consistent results. Genotypes A, D, and E were commonly reported. However, genotype E was the most predominant, while genotype A was highly variable across the continent, with subgenotype A1 being the most common. Finally, some studies discovered novel recombinant strains from HBV genotypes and subgenotypes.

CONCLUSION

There were limited reports on HBV genotype across Africa, with scarce genotype and clinical linkages, making HBV genotype epidemiology a relevant gap for informed clinical decision-making in hepatitis B treatment.