Molecular Epidemiology of Hepatitis C Virus Genotypes in Northern Thailand: A Retrospective Study from 2016 to 2024

TL;DR

This study tracks the spread of different Hepatitis C virus types in northern Thailand from 2016 to 2024, showing a rise in genotype 6.

Contribution

The study provides updated molecular surveillance data on HCV genotypes in northern Thailand, highlighting a recent increase in genotype 6.

Findings

Genotype 3 was the most common, followed by genotype 1 and genotype 6.

Genotype 6 prevalence increased since 2021 and had higher viral loads.

Genotype 1 was more common in males, while genotype 3 was more common in females.

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a significant public health concern in Thailand, with genotype-specific, drug-dependent variations influencing treatment response and disease progression. Despite the availability of pan-genotypic direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), genotype surveillance remains essential for optimizing national elimination strategies. This study thus aims to characterize the molecular distribution of HCV genotypes in northern Thailand. Methods: We conducted a retrospective molecular epidemiological study on 1737 HCV-infected patients who attended the Clinical Microbiology Service Unit (CMSU) Laboratory, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University between April 2016 and June 2024. HCV genotyping was performed using Sanger sequencing and reverse hybridization line probe assay (LiPA). Results: Genotype 3 was the most prevalent (36.6%), followed by genotype 1 (35.8%) and genotype 6 (27.2%). Subtype 3a (27.2%) predominated, along with 1a (22.1%), 1b (12.6%), and genotype 6 subtypes including 6c to 6l (13.5%) and 6n (6.6%). Males had a higher prevalence of genotype 1, while genotype 3 was more common among females. Temporal analysis revealed a relative increase in genotype 6 prevalence since 2021. Genotype 6 also exhibited significantly higher median viral loads compared to genotypes 1 and 3 (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: This study provides updated evidence on the shifting distribution of HCV genotypes in northern Thailand, particularly the increasing prevalence of genotype 6. These findings underscore the importance of continued molecular surveillance to guide genotype-specific treatment strategies and support Thailand’s 2030 HCV elimination goals.

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