Human Oncogenic Epstein-Barr Virus in Water and Human Blood Infection of Communities in Phayao Province, Thailand

Water can contain pathogenic viruses. Many studies on RNA virus sources have shown that water can transmit them. However, there are few reports on pathogenic DNA virus transmission through water, such as adenovirus, which pose a widespread public health risk. Therefore, this study aimed to show waterborne viral transmission by detecting viruses in pooled human whole blood samples, tap water, and natural water from Mueang District, Phayao Province, Thailand, using a metagenomic approach. Viral prevalence in whole blood samples was measured by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and quantitative PCR (qPCR), and environmental factors that affect viral infection were assessed. Metagenomics results showed that Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) members were among the prominent cancer-associated oncogenic DNA viruses detected in human blood and all water types similar to the EBV reference sequence (NC_007605). There were 59 out of 813 (7.26%) human whole blood samples that were positive for EBV DNA based on PCR and qPCR for the EBNA-1 and EBNA-2 genes. Water- and blood-borne human oncogenic EBV should be a concern in tap water treatment and blood transfusion in patients, respectively. Therefore, the detection of EBV in water suggests that transmission via water is possible and should be investigated further.

Automated summary

This study demonstrates the possibility of viral transmission through water by detecting viruses in human blood samples, tap water, and natural water. It also identifies the presence of human oncogenic EBV in both blood and water samples, highlighting the potential public health risks. Further investigation is warranted to better understand waterborne viral transmission and prevent virus-related diseases.