Hepatitis B vaccination coverage among health-care workers in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Vaccination coverage of hepatitis B and associated factors among health care workers in Gansu province

The investigation was conducted to describe the status of coverage of HBV vaccination among the health care workers in Gansu province and to explore the associated factors of HBV vaccination in this study. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1544 health care workers from 64 hospitals in Gansu province. A self-designed questionnaire was used to interview the health care workers about HBV vaccination coverage. A multivariate logistic regression model explored the associated factors with HBV vaccination. The vaccination coverage was 89.17% for health care workers, nurses (90.40%) had the highest rate, followed by administration staff (89.38%) and medical technicians (89.30%). The full-dose HBV vaccination coverage was 64.25% for health care workers, and administration staff (65.04%) had the highest rate, followed by nurses (65.00%). This study found that the associated factors with HBV vaccination and full-dose vaccination were the history of training and the detection of serological indicators. The coverage of HBV vaccination among health care workers in Gansu province was high, but full-dose HBV vaccination coverage was low. It is necessary to strengthen the HBV knowledge and training in HBV prevention and treatment among health care workers in Gansu Province.

Protected or not? Hepatitis B vaccination status among healthcare workers and the level of protection post-vaccination

Background

Hepatitis B virus infection is one of the major concerns in global health care. With a far-reaching health, social, economic impact, preventive strategies form the cornerstone of its management. Knowledge about vaccination status and protection rendered thereof would aid in more wholesome management among highrisk population groups like healthcare workers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the Hepatitis B vaccination status among Healthcare workers (HCW) and the level of protection post-vaccination.

Methods

During the study period a total of 420 HCWs were included in the study. The details of vaccination status was ascertained by an online questionnaire. Serum samples were evaluated for HBsAg status and Anti HBs titres to assess the level of protection against HBV infection. Those who were HBsAg negative, anti-HBc total was assessed.

Results

Our study revealed a high vaccination status among HCWs, n-384 (93.2%). However, the percentage of HCWs who were completely vaccinated was low (56.3%). Most of the study population, n-395 (95.6%) had protective titres of anti-HBs which showed a declining trend with increasing duration since the last dose of the vaccine.

Conclusion

Hepatitis B infection continues to be an important health hazard with significant morbidity and mortality. Healthcare workers are at higher risk of contracting the infection. Merely considering the vaccination status without knowing the protective anti-HBs titres is to be discouraged as it has been observed that the protective antibody titres show a declining trend with time as even completely vaccinated individuals had non-protective levels of antibody titres.

Seroprevalence of viral hepatitis B and C infections among healthcare workers in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at higher risk of contracting hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections. Currently, there is no estimate of pooled data on the prevalence of HBV and HCV infections among HCWs in the country. Thus, this review aimed to determine the pooled prevalence of hepatitis B and C infections among HCWs in Ethiopia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, Hinari, and African Journals Online to identify pertinent articles from the inception to April 2024. The protocol has been registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; CRD42024527940) and conducted per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Data were extracted independently by two authors and analyzed using STATA version 11 software. A random-effect model and Egger's test were computed to estimate the pooled prevalence and assess publication bias, respectively.

RESULTS

A total of 18 studies involving4,948 healthcare workers were included in this review to estimate the pooled prevalence of HBV and HCV infections among HCWs in Ethiopia. The overall prevalence of HBV was 5.93% (95% CI; 3.22-8.63). The sub-group analysis showed that the prevalence of HBV among medical waste handlers and health professionals was8.6% (95% CI; 3.01-14.13) and 4.98% (95% CI; 1.85-8.11), respectively. The combined prevalence of HCV was 1.12% (95% CI; -4.19-6.43). In the sub-group analysis, the prevalence of HCV among medical waste handlers and health professionals was1.44% (95% CI; -5.28-8.18) and 0.59% (95% CI; -8.09-9.27), respectively.

CONCLUSION

In this review, we found a higher (5.93%) and moderate (1.12%) prevalence of HBV and HCV infections, respectively among Ethiopian HCWs. Therefore, to reduce the infectious burden of HBV and HCV among HCWs; there is a need to strict adherence to infection prevention and control measures. In addition, adequate HBV vaccination coverage for HCWs is mandatory to reduce the burden of HBV infection in the country.

A Multicentre Cross-Sectional Study on Hepatitis B Vaccination Coverage and Associated Factors Among Personnel Working in Health Facilities in Kumasi, Ghana

Background: As part of efforts to reach the elimination target by 2030, the WHO and CDC recommend that all HCWs adhere to the three-dose Hepatitis B vaccination schedule to protect themselves against the infection. This study assessed Hepatitis B vaccination coverage and associated factors among personnel working in health facilities in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, Ghana. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 530 HCWs was conducted in four hospitals in Kumasi from September to November 2023. An investigator-administered questionnaire was employed in gathering participant demographics and other information related to vaccination coverage. IBM SPSS Version 26.0 and GraphPad Prism 8.0 were used for analysing the data. Results: Even though the majority (70.6%) reported having taken at least one dose of the vaccine, only 43.6% were fully vaccinated (≥ 3 doses). More than a quarter (29.4%) had not taken any dose of the HBV vaccine. Close to a quarter (23.6%) had not screened or tested for HBV infection in their lifetime. The statistically significant variables influencing vaccination status were age, marital status, profession, and status in the hospital. Nearly one-half (44.9%) of the participants who have not taken the vaccine reported they do not have a reason for not taking it, and a high proportion (80.1%) were willing to take the vaccine when given for free. Conclusion: To combat the low Hepatitis B vaccination coverage among healthcare workers in Kumasi, Ghana, amidst the significant public health threat of HBV infection, comprehensive measures are necessary. These include implementing infection prevention control programmes, enhancing occupational health and safety, and conducting health promotion campaigns in healthcare facilities. Extending and intensifying Hepatitis B screening and vaccination initiatives to tertiary institutions and encouraging employers, supervisors, or team leaders to provide these services nationwide are also recommended.

Low level of awareness and prevention of hepatitis B among Congolese healthcare workers: urgent need for policy implementation

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a country with many public health challenges, including those related to the prevention and management of viral hepatitis B. Healthcare workers, who are at the frontline of patient care, are particularly at risk of contracting and spreading this virus, especially given its high prevalence in the general population. This paper examines the level of awareness and preventive measures among Congolese healthcare workers. Overall, the data show that health workers are under-immunized and lack formal training in hepatitis B prevention and management. In addition to limited awareness, health facilities are insufficiently involved in the implementation of standardized infection control protocols, the provision of personal protective equipment and routine hepatitis B vaccination programmes. There also appears to be a lack of clear and effective national policies outlining the main axes of infection control targets by 2030. This calls for urgent policy implementation focusing on mandatory vaccination, training, resource availability, adherence to infection control practices and comprehensive post-exposure management.

Hepatitis B vaccination coverage and associated factors among nurses working at health centers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) poses one of the most serious workplace health risks facing healthcare workers, especially nurses, due to occupational exposure. The HBV vaccination coverage among healthcare workers in Ethiopia ranged from 5.4 to 21.9%. However, little is known about HBV vaccination coverage and associated factors among nurses in Ethiopia. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess HBV vaccination coverage and associated factors among nurses working in health centers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 2023.

METHODS

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2 to March 31, 2023, among 428 nurses working in 32 health centers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Data were entered into Epi-Info version 7.2.5.0 and then exported to SPSS version 27 for analysis. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and proportions) were used to summarize the data on the study variables. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the strength of the association, and the statistical significance of associations between the variables was determined using adjusted odds ratio with a 95% CI and p values < 0.05.

RESULTS

HBV-full vaccination coverage among 428 nurses in health centers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, was 36.9%. Male nurses [AOR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.08, 2.95], taking training on infection prevention [AOR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.08, 2.78], having good knowledge about HBV vaccine [AOR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.28, 3.04], and testing for HBV [AOR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.08, 3.64] were more likely to have HBV full vaccination coverage, whereas monthly salary ≤ 7,071 Ethiopian Birr was 54% less likely to have HBV full vaccination coverage [AOR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.25, 0.85] at p-value < 0.05.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that the full HBV vaccination coverage of nurses working in health centers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, was low (36.9%), and consequently, the majority of nurses are at a high risk of being infected with HBV. Therefore, the Ministry of Health and health centers should promote awareness, implement prevention programs, provide diagnostic, treatment, and care services, enhance information generation and utilization, and strengthen the health system to increase vaccination coverage among nurses.

Practice on hepatitis B virus infection prevention and associated factors in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B infection due to poor practices can result in prolonged hospital stays, long-term disability, increased microbial resistance, financial burdens and death. There has been no comprehensive study assessing the practice level of hepatitis B virus infection prevention in Ethiopia despite the high risk of exposure. Thus, this review aimed to assess practice on hepatitis B virus infection prevention in Ethiopia.

METHODS

For published studies, we conducted a thorough search of the PubMed, African Journal Online, Science Direct, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar databases. The data were exported to STATA version 11 (STATA Corp LLC) for meta-analysis. Heterogeneity between the results of the primary studies was assessed using Cochran's Q chi-square test and quantified with I2 statistics. A random effect model, specifically the DerSimonian and Laird pooled estimate method, was used due to the presence of heterogeneity between the included articles.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Initially, 1738 articles were retrieved through electronic database searching. Of these, 910 were from Google Scholar, 4 from PubMed, 378 from Science Direct, 421 from African Journal Online and 25 from the Cochrane Library. The pooled estimate showed that 41.54% (95% CI: 33.81-49.27, P < 0.001) of individuals had a good practice towards hepatitis B virus infection prevention. Good knowledge of HBV infection prevention (POR = 1.13, 95% CI: (0.28-4.46) and urban residence (POR = 4.27, 95% CI: 1.17-15.49) were factors significantly associated with practices aimed at preventing hepatitis B virus infection. Based on the findings of the current study, most of the participants reported poor practices for hepatitis B virus infection prevention. Residence and knowledge of hepatitis B virus prevention were significantly associated with practices aimed at preventing hepatitis B virus infection. The Ministry of Health should collaborate with the health bureau for continual awareness about the mode of transmission and preventive measures of HBV.

Hepatitis B vaccine among healthcare workers: factors associated with the dimensions of the Health Belief Model

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between the dimensions of the Health Belief Model (HBM) and complete vaccination for hepatitis B among healthcare workers (HCW).

METHODS

Cross-sectional epidemiological study with HCW in Primary Health and Medium Complexity Care. Univariate and bivariate analyses were performed to test the association between the outcome variable (complete vaccination for hepatitis B based on self-report) and the variables of the HBM dimensions. Prevalence ratio (PR) and its respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated.

RESULTS

453 HCW participated. The prevalence of complete vaccination for hepatitis B was 56.9%. In the final analysis model, the following variables were associated with complete vaccination for hepatitis B: chances of having hepatitis B (PR=1.73) - related to the susceptibility dimension; disease severity (PR=0.74) - related to severity; reduced risk of absenteeism (PR=1.29) - related to benefits; not spending time to get vaccinated (PR=1.41) and not worrying about Events Supposedly Attributable to Vaccination or Immunization (PR=1.43) - related to barriers.

CONCLUSIONS

The completeness of the hepatitis B vaccination schedule, reported by the investigated HCW, reveals the prevalence is below the target established by the Ministry of Health, which follows the national scenario of low coverage presented for other age groups. Understanding the risk perception and severity of hepatitis B can contribute to increasing the prevalence of vaccination for this infection.

Hepatitis B immunisation and immune status of nurses in a regional hospital in central South Africa

BACKGROUND

The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the most important biological occupational hazards for healthcare workers. A high percentage of HBV infections are attributable to percutaneous occupational exposure. This study aimed to describe the HBV immunisation and current immune status of all the nurses employed in a regional hospital in central South Africa.

METHODS

A descriptive record review included all the nurses (N = 388) employed in a regional hospital in central South Africa from 01 January 2018 to 31 January 2020. A total of 289 health records were included in the study. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Logistic regression analysis was used to establish factors associated with full immunisation.

RESULTS

Most nurses were females (87.9%), working in medical (27.0%) wards. Only 20.4% of nurses received one dose of vaccine, while 51.2% received the three prescribed doses. However, 91.2% of nurses did not receive the vaccine at the correct intervals. Most of the tested nurses (71.0%) were immune. Immunisation status was significantly associated with religion (p  0.001) and schedule (p = 0.003). Nurses who were non-Christians were 35.9% less likely to be fully vaccinated compared to Christians.

CONCLUSION

Half of the nursing staff received three doses as prescribed. All nurses should receive the vaccine against HBV and their immune status monitored to minimise the risk of an infection. It is therefore recommended that proof of immunity should be a requirement.Contribution: This study found a high percentage of nurses with HBV antibodies, which will ensure workplace safety.

Occupational exposure to Hepatitis B virus, disease burden and pathways for postexposure prophylaxis management: recommendations for healthcare workers in highly endemic settings

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) was recognized many decades ago as an important occupational hazard for Health Care Workers (HCWs) globally. HCWs who are directly involved in patient care and are in continuous contact with blood or body fluids have an increased risk of occupationally acquiring the virus. The risk of HCWs in highly endemic areas is greater due to the greater prevalence of infection in the general population. Recommendations are available to guide HBV prevention activities or practices among HCWs. These include the use of the hepatitis B vaccine as a preexposure prophylaxis and the use of hepatitis B immunoglobulin alone or hepatitis B immunoglobulin plus the vaccine as postexposure prophylaxis. The uptake of preexposure prophylaxis has been observed to be low in resource-poor settings where the disease is highly endemic. Postexposure prophylaxis has become the remedy for preventing occupational transmission of HBV in these settings. This review aimed to summarize the available evidence on the risk of transmission of HBV infection, the burden of infection and recommendations for pre- and postexposure prophylaxis for the prevention of occupational acquisition of HBV among HCWs. We conducted a narrative review to summarize the evidence available on the recommended steps of HBV exposure management and the utilization of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for HBV. A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and Africa Journals Online (AJOL) databases. The keywords used were hepatitis B, hepatitis B virus postexposure prophylaxis, occupational exposures, and recommendations for postexposure to hepatitis B virus. We gleaned evidence from the literature sources and summarized the concepts related to exposure forms, postexposure prophylaxis management pathways and recommendations for the utilization of postexposure prophylaxis among exposed healthcare workers. From the synthesis of evidence, we conclude that HBV infection is a life-threatening condition. However, the disease is preventable by using the HBV vaccine as a preexposure prophylaxis measure. An effective postexposure prophylaxis management program is also available, and the last resort to preventing occupational transmission of HBV among HCWs who non-responders are, or who fail to vaccinate completely against HBV. Irrespective of the availability of these lifesaving interventions, the use of pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis among HCWs in highly endemic regions is suboptimal. Many barriers operating at the individual HCW and health facility levels have been identified as impacting the successful use of HBV preventive measures.

Completion of three-dose hepatitis B vaccination cycle and associated factors among health care workers in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana

BACKGROUND

Despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine coupled with the awareness of the potential risk of Healthcare Workers acquiring Hepatitis B Virus infection, some HCWs never get vaccinated. Generally, hepatitis B vaccination coverage globally is below the expected level as adherence has remained poor in various healthcare settings, especially in developing countries. The objective of this study was to assess the completion of a three-dose Hepatitis B virus vaccination cycle and associated factors among healthcare workers in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted and included 363 healthcare workers selected using probability sampling procedures. The participants were recruited from five facilities within the Greater Accra Region in the first half of 2018. A pretested questionnaire was used to collect data which was analyzed using SPSS version 21. The proportion of healthcare workers receiving the recommended 3 doses of the hepatitis vaccine was computed. The multivariable analysis procedure identified the factors associated with adherence to the receipt of three doses of the hepatitis B vaccine. Odds ratios were estimated with corresponding confidence intervals with the level of significance set at 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 340 sample units were included in the analysis. Most of the participants (252/340, 74.1%) were females, mainly nurses/midwives (162/340, 47.6%) with a mean age of 34.5 (SD ±7.7). A high proportion of the participants (82.7%) have tertiary/post-tertiary level education and ever participated in at least one training workshop on the prevention of blood-borne infections (80.6%). Overall vaccination uptake was 60.9% (207/340) (95% CI = 55.7%-66.1%). Complete vaccination coverage (three doses) was 46.8% (159/340). High-risk perception (AOR = 4.0; 95% CI = 1.3-12.5), and previous training in infection prevention (AOR = 2.8; 95% CI = 1.1-7.5) were significantly associated with adherence to receipt of three doses of hepatitis B vaccine.

CONCLUSION

Adherence to three-dose hepatitis B vaccination cycles is not universal among the healthcare workers in the Greater Accra Region. Receipt of the three-dose regimen is significantly associated with high-risk perception and attendance of training in infectious disease prevention. Interventions to increase risk perception and training in the prevention of blood-borne infections could improve adherence to complete/full vaccination protocol among healthcare workers who are at constant risk of exposure to the hepatitis B virus.

Adherence to the three-component Hepatitis B virus vaccination protocol among healthcare workers in hepatitis B virus endemic settings in Ghana

Background

The WHO and CDC recommend that HCWs who are at risk of HBV infection should vaccinate as adults early in their career by receiving 3 doses of HB vaccine at a schedule of months 0,1,6 and perform post-vaccination serological testing 1-2 months after vaccination. This study assessed adherence to all three components of the HBV vaccination program.

Methods

The study was a hospital-based analytical cross-sectional study involving 340 HCWs who were randomly selected. A pretested questionnaire was used to collect data which was analyzed using SPSS version 21. The proportion of HCWs adhering to the three components of the HBV vaccination protocol was computed. The multivariable analysis procedure identified the factors associated with overall adherence. Odds ratios were estimated with corresponding confidence intervals with the level of significance set at 0.05.

Results

HBV vaccination coverage was 60.9 % and adherence to 3-doses, 0,1,6 vaccination schedules and post-vaccination serological testing were 46.8 %, 38 % and 13 % respectively. Overall adherence was intermediate at the population level with only 6.2 % of the study participants adhering to all three components of the HBV vaccination protocol. HCWs who had low-risk perception for HBV had the lowest odds of completely adhering to all three indicators recommended for HBV vaccination (aOR = 0.15; 95 %CI = 0.04-0.58). Also, male HCWs have lower odds of adhering to all three components of HBV vaccination compared to their female counterparts (aOR = 0.65; 95 %CI = 1.17-2.50).

Conclusion

Adherence to the three components of HBV vaccination recommended for HCWs is low in this study. Failure to receive the recommended three-dose series of HBV vaccine at the recommended 0,1,6 schedule has implications for achieving seroprotection or development of antibodies against HBV. Failure to perform post-vaccination testing 1-2 months after HBV vaccination has implications for timely PEP management following occupational exposures. All three components of an ideal HBV vaccination program are important and should be used collectively to guide facility led HCW vaccination programs. Occupational health and safety programs, Infection prevention and control, as well as health promotion campaigns in health facilities, should promote adherence to all three components of HBV vaccination programs.

Hepatitis B virus immunity prior to and after administration of a ‘booster’ dose of vaccine among health-care students at a South African university

Background

Health-care students (HCSs) are at risk of occupational exposure to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection despite an effective hepatitis B vaccine (HepB) being available. The majority of current HCSs are born after HepB was introduced into the South African Expanded Programme on Immunisation in 1995. Thus, it is assumed that having received HepB in infancy, a single 'booster' dose would suffice. This study aimed to investigate HBV immunity prior to and after administration of a HepB 'booster' dose.

Methods

Hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) levels were determined in first year HCSs at the University of the Witwatersrand, before and after receiving the 'booster'. Participant demographics and HepB history were captured using a structured questionnaire.

Results

Before receiving the 'booster', 56% (101/180) had anti-HBs < 10 mIU/mL and were non-immune. A further 35% had anti-HBs levels of 10 - 99 mIU/mL, and 9% had ≥100 mIU/mL. <30% of HCSs self-reported completion of a three-dose primary series, which was significantly associated with higher baseline anti-HBs levels compared to those with a partial schedule (p = 0.045). Following vaccination, 39% (71/180) returned for follow-up with a significant median (IQR) increase of 476 (151 - 966) mIU/mL (p < 0.001). Of the 45 students who had non-immune baseline levels, 73% (33/45) responded with ≥100 mIU/mL, 16% (7/45) with 10 - 99 mIU/mL and 11% (5/45) remained non-immune. Levels of ≥100 mIU/mL were achieved by 100% of students with baseline levels ≥10 mIU/mL (n = 26).

Conclusion

More than half of the HCSs were not immune to HBV prior to receiving the recommended 'booster' vaccine. Following vaccination, 7% (5/71) remained unprotected. This study highlights that in the absence of vaccination records and without confirming the immune status of HCSs, it cannot be assumed that HCSs will be protected following a 'booster'. Policy reform and inclusion of serological tests for immunity prior to HCSs initiating clinical exposure are recommended.

Serological Evidence and Associated Factors of Hepatitis B Virus and Hepatitis C Virus Among Waste Handlers: A Cross-Sectional Study from Northeastern Ethiopia

Background

The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified viral hepatitis, caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV), as one of the main global public health issues. People who work in the collection of waste materials, from either household or medical environments, are at greatest risk.

Objective

To determine the prevalence of and factors associated with HBV and HCV among medical and domestic waste handlers in Northeast Ethiopia.

Methods

A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from January to April 2021 at selected healthcare facilities and municipal settings in Dessie town, Northeast Ethiopia. The sample size was determined using a double population proportion formula, and a simple random sampling technique was employed to select 70 individuals in the medical waste handlers (MWHs) group and 206 in the domestic waste handlers (DWHs) group. Five milliliters of venous blood was collected from each participant and tested for HBV and HCV using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23; the prevalence was computed, Fisher's exact test was used, and logistic regression was applied.

Results

A total of 276 study participants were enrolled and the overall seroprevalence of hepatitis virus was 5.1%. The seroprevalence of HBV infection among MWHs and DWHs was 8.6% and 1.9%, respectively. The overall seroprevalence of HCV infections among MWHs and DWHs was 4.3% and 0.5%, respectively. Medical waste handling, having a history of needle stick injury, and not using personal protective equipment were factors significantly associated with HBV infection.

Conclusion

The overall seroprevalence of viral hepatitis was high. The prevalence of HBV infection among MWHs was in line with the high endemicity classification of the WHO, and there was a significant difference in prevalence between DWHs and MWHs. Both groups of waste handlers should receive proper attention to protect them from HBV and HCV infection.

HBV Infection Is an Intermediate-Risk Disease, Whereas Anaemia Is a Mild-to-Moderate Public Health Problem in Young Ghanaian Adults: A Four-Year Retrospective Analysis of Students' Medical Records

Background

In sub-Saharan Africa, malaria, chronic viral diseases, nutritional deficiencies, and haemoglobinopathies are common causes of anaemia. Continual surveillance data is required to situate the anaemia and infectious disease burden within a given population. This study determined the 4-year trends of anaemia, hepatitis B virus (HBV), and HCV infections and factors associated with anaemia in young Ghanaian adults.

Methods

This retrospective study analysed the medical records of 21,716 fresh students at the University of Cape Coast. Data was presented as percentages and line graphs to show the yearly trends in anaemia, HBV, and HCV infections. Binary logistic regression was used to determine the increased odds of anaemia in participants.

Results

Although the 4-year anaemia prevalence was 14.2% (95% CI: 0.1403-0.1498), anaemia prevalence in women and men were 24.1% (95% CI: 0.2387-0.2562) and 6.6% (95% CI:0.0616-0.0705), respectively. Anaemia prevalence consistently remained mild (males) and moderate (females) public health problem over the four-year period. Adolescents were more represented in the anaemic group (18.7% prevalence), 70.9% of them being females. The prevalence of HBV and HCV infections were 5.4% (95% CI:0.0506-0.0567) and 0.9% (95% CI: 0.0082-0.0108), respectively; only 0.1% of participants had HBV and HCV coinfection. Males were more represented in both HBV (71.2%) and HCV (63.7%) infection groups. Moreover, 15.8% of the participants who were seropositive for HBsAg self-reported having previously been vaccinated, suggesting a breakthrough infection and/or vaccine nonresponse. Furthermore, female (COR: 4.545; p < 0.001), teenagers (COR: 1.697; p < 0.001), 20-29 years (COR: 1.221; p = 0.035), and positive sickling slide test (COR: 1.176; p = 0.003) were statistically significantly associated with increased odds of anaemia.

Conclusion

Intentional preventative public health campaigns regarding anaemia, HBV, and HCV infection should, respectively, target females and young adult males to increase chances of making real change in behavioural attitudes in these at-risk groups.

Hepatitis B vaccination status among health workers in Nigeria: a nationwide survey between January to June 2021

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B vaccination is the most important preventive measure against Hepatitis B viral (HBV) infection. Vaccination against HBV infection among healthcare workers is important because of their daily exposure to patients' body fluids and the possible risk of transmission to other patients. Hence, this study assessed the risk of hepatitis B infection, vaccination status and associated factors among healthcare workers in six geopolitical zones of Nigeria.

METHODS

A nationwide cross-sectional study was conducted between January and June 2021 using electronic data capture techniques to enroll 857 healthcare workers (HCWs) in regular contact with patients and their samples through a multi-stage sampling method.

RESULTS

The participants' mean (SD) age was 38.7 (8.0) years, and 453 (52.9%) were female. Each of the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria had a fair representation, with a range of 15.3 to 17.7% of the study population. The majority (83.8%) of healthcare workers in Nigeria knew that they were at an increased risk of being infected by their work. Also, 72.2% knew that if infected, there was a high risk of liver cancer in later life. Many participants (642 [74.9%]) responded that they consistently applied standard precautions, such as hand washing, gloves, and face masks while attending to patients. Three hundred and sixty (42.0%) participants were fully vaccinated. Of the 857 respondents, 248 (28.9%) did not receive any dose of the hepatitis B vaccine. Factors that were associated with not being vaccinated included age less than 25 [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 4.796, 95% CI 1.119 to 20.547, p = 0.035], being a nurse (AOR 2.346, 95% CI 1.446 to 3.808, p = 0.010), being a health attendant (AOR 9.225, 95% CI 4.532 to 18.778, p = 0.010), and being a healthcare worker from the Southeast (AOR 2.152, 95% CI 1.186 to 3.904, p = 0.012) in Nigeria.

CONCLUSION

This study showed a high level of awareness of the risks associated with hepatitis B infection and suboptimal uptake of the hepatitis B vaccine among healthcare workers in Nigeria.

Hepatitis B infection prevention: Audit of selected healthcare facilities in the Greater Accra Region, Ghana

Introduction

The risk of occupational exposure to Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is high among healthcare workers (HCWs), especially in developing countries like Ghana where the prevalence of HBV is high. Unfortunately, in such regions, HCW protection does not appear to be a priority, and healthcare facilities (HFs) have been reported to have unsatisfactory levels of implementing preventive strategies to protect HCWs from blood-borne infections including HBV.

Methods

A cross-sectional and Q audit was performed involving 255 HFs selected by proportional allocation and systematic random sampling. Data was collected using a structured pretested questionnaire with HF managers being the respondents. Data were analysed using IBM ® SPSS® (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 21.0) where univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analysis was done with the level of significance set at <0.05.

Results

Overall adherence to recommended strategies, structures, and programs for HBV prevention among the HFs was generally low, with a mean score of 37.02 (95% CI = 33.98-40.05). There was a statistically significant difference in the level of adherence between the HF categories (F = 9.698; P = <0.001). Being a hospital (OR = 3.9: CI = 1.68-9.29), possessing infection, prevention and control (IPC) guidelines (OR = 6.69: CI = 3.29-13.63) as well as having functional IPC committees in place (OR = 7.9: CI = 3.59-17.34) were associated with good adherence to HF-level HBV preventive strategies.

Conclusion

Overall adherence to HF-level prevention of HBV is sub-optimal. Higher-level facilities were better resourced with HBV vaccine and Hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG). Adherence to HBV prevention strategies depends on the type of HF and the availability of IPC committees and their respective IPC coordinators.

Clinicopathological Features and Survival of Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Ethiopia: A Multicenter Study

(1) Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the deadliest cancers globally, killing over 700,000 people each year. Despite the rising incidence and mortality rates of HCC in Ethiopia, only few single-centered studies have been conducted; therefore, we aimed to explore the clinicopathological characteristics and survival of patients with HCC in multicenter settings. (2) Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 369 patients with confirmed HCC diagnosed between 2016 and 2021. The survival of patients weas determined using the Kaplan−Meier method, and hazard ratios of the prognostic factors were estimated in Cox proportional hazard models. (3) Results: Majority patients were male (67%) and had a mean age of 52.0 ± 15.6 years. The majority of patients (87%) had a large tumor size (>5 cm) at diagnosis and presented with an advanced-stage condition. Cirrhosis (58%) and viral hepatitis (46.5%) were the main risk factors associated with HCC. The median overall survival was 141 days (95% CI: 117−165). Patients who took antivirals for HBV had a higher survival benefit compared to the untreated group (469 vs. 104 days; p < 0.001). The risk of death was 12 times higher in patients with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer-D (BCLC-D) terminal stage HCC compared to patients with an early stage (BCLC-A) HCC. The stage of HCC and treatment against HBV are the most significant survival predictors. (4) Conclusions: The overall survival of HCC patients in Ethiopia is poor. Cirrhosis and viral hepatitis are the primary risk factors linked with HCC. Patients who received antiviral therapy for HBV had a better survival outcome.

Prevalence of hepatitis B virus and immunity status among healthcare workers in Beira City, Mozambique

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection can be prevented by vaccination. Exposure to blood or body fluids poses a high risk of transmission of HBV in health care workers (HCWs). This study aimed to determine the prevalence of markers of exposure, susceptibility, and protection to HBV infection in HCWs in Beira, Mozambique.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted between June and August 2020 in Beira City, Mozambique, in HCWs based on self-administered questionnaires and blood samples. Plasma samples were tested for HBV surface antigen (HBsAg), antibodies to HBV core antigen (anti-HBc), antibodies to HBsAg (anti-HBs) and HBV viral load (HBV DNA).

RESULTS

Most of the 315 HCWs in the study were nurses (125; 39.7%). Of the HCWs, 5.1% (16; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 2.9 to 8.1%) were infected by HBV (HBsAg and/or HBV DNA positive). Occult HBV infection (OBI) (HBV DNA positive and HBsAg negative) was found in 0.3% (1; 95% CI: 0.0 to 1.8%) of participants; 27.9% (88; 95% CI: 23.1 to 33.2%) were susceptible (negative for all markers), 6.3% (20; 95% CI: 3.9 to 9.6) were immune due to natural infection (anti-HBs and anti-HBc positive only), while 60% (189; 95% CI: 54.4 to 65.5) were immune due to vaccination (anti-HBs positive only).

CONCLUSION

This study showed a high intermediate prevalence of chronic hepatitis B among healthcare workers in Beira City, Central Mozambique, and one-third of healthcare workers were susceptible to HBV infection. There is a need to implement a national hepatitis B screening and vaccination strategy among healthcare workers in Mozambique.

Model-based evaluation of the impact of prophylactic vaccination applied to Ebola epidemics in Sierra Leone and Democratic Republic of Congo

BACKGROUND

Protection by preventive Ebola vaccines has been demonstrated in clinical trials, but a complete picture of real-world effectiveness is lacking. Our previous study modeling the impact of preventively vaccinating healthcare workers (HCW) alone or with a proportion of the general population (GP) estimated significant reductions in incidence and mortality. The model assumed 100% vaccine efficacy, which is unlikely in the real world. We enhanced this model to account for lower vaccine efficacy and to factor in reduced infectiousness and lower case fatality rate in vaccinated individuals with breakthrough infections.

METHODS

The previous model was enhanced to still permit a risk, although lower, for vaccinated individuals to become infected. The enhanced model, calibrated with data from epidemics in Sierra Leone (SL) and North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, helped evaluate the impact of preventive Ebola vaccination in different scenarios based on different vaccine efficacy rates (90% and 30% reductions in infection risk in the base and conservative scenarios, respectively; additionally, both scenarios with 50% reductions in infectiousness and mortality) and vaccination coverage among HCWs (30%, 90%) and GP (0%, 5%, and 10%).

RESULTS

The base scenario estimated that, depending upon the proportions of vaccinated HCWs and GP, 33-85% of cases and 34-87% of deaths during the 2014 SL epidemic and 42-89% of cases and 41-89% of deaths during the 2018 North Kivu epidemic would be averted versus no vaccination. Corresponding estimates for the conservative scenario were: 23-74% of cases and 23-77% of deaths averted during the SL epidemic and 31-80% of both cases and deaths averted during the North Kivu epidemic.

CONCLUSIONS

Preventive vaccination targeting HCW alone or with GP may significantly reduce the size and mortality of an EVD outbreak, even with modest efficacy and coverage. Vaccines may also confer additional benefits through reduced infectiousness and mortality in breakthrough cases.

Prevalence and geo-clinicodemographic factors associated with hepatitis B vaccination among healthcare workers in five developing countries

Background

There is a four-fold risk for hepatitis B infection among healthcare workers compared to the general population. Due to limited access to diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis B in many resource-constrained settings, there is a real risk that only few healthcare workers with viral hepatitis may get screened or diagnosed and treated. Studies on hepatitis B vaccination among healthcare workers in developing countries are sparse and this bodes ill for intervention and support. The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence and explored the associated factors that predicted the uptake of the required, full dosage of hepatitis B vaccination among healthcare workers (HCWs) in five developing countries using nationally representative data.

Methods

We used recent datasets from the Demographic and Health Surveys Program’s Service Provision Assessment Survey. Descriptive summary statistics and logistic regressions were used to produce the results. Statistical significance was pegged at p < 0.05.

Results

The proportion of HCWs who received the required doses of hepatitis B vaccine in Afghanistan, Haiti, Malawi, Nepal, and Senegal were 69.1%, 11.3%, 15.4%, 46.5%, and 17.6%, respectively. Gender, occupational qualification, and years of education were significant correlates of receiving the required doses of hepatitis B among HCWs.

Conclusions

Given the increased risk of hepatitis B infection among healthcare workers, policymakers in developing countries should intensify education campaigns among HCWs and, perhaps, must take it a step further by making hepatitis B vaccination compulsory and a key requirement for employment, especially among those workers who regularly encounter bodily fluids of patients.

Assessment of Hepatitis B Vaccination Status and Associated Factors among Healthcare Workers in Bosaso, Puntland, Somalia 2020

Introduction

Hepatitis B virus disease is a viral infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which is a major public health problem worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) estimate, two billion people worldwide have serologic evidence of past or present HBV infection. The risk of infection is high among health professionals due to the risk of occupational contact with fluids of infected patients and the risk of needle stick injury. This study is aimed at assessing HBV vaccination coverage and reasons for possible defiance of the vaccine among healthcare workers in Bosaso, Somalia. Methodology. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted by using a quantitative approach to identify hepatitis B virus vaccination coverage and reasons for vaccine defiance in Bosaso from September 2020 to November 2020. Healthcare workers (HCWs) in Bosaso city both in public and private health facilities who accepted to participate in this study were interviewed by using a structured questionnaire, and SPSS was used to analyze the collected data.

Results

We found that only (16.4%) of HCWs were fully vaccinated. The main reasons for not taking the vaccine by the participants were the unavailability of the vaccine (42%), high vaccine cost (28.7%), lack of time (20.7%), and fear of vaccine side effects (7.5%). The majority (69.7%) of HCWs demonstrated good knowledge about HBV infection. The vaccination uptake was significantly higher among midwives (p = 0.02; OR = 1.21; 95%CI = 1.39 - 67.41) and individuals aged under 30 years (p = 0.03; OR = 8.6; 95%CI = 1.17-63.26).

Conclusion

Our study revealed that vaccination coverage of HCWs in Bosaso was very low because of the unavailability of vaccines, high cost of the vaccine, lack of time, and fear of vaccine side effects. Therefore, the development and implementation of policies related to HBV vaccination are recommended.

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Health-Care Workers Towards Hepatitis B Virus Prevention in Kabul, Afghanistan

Background

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a serious public health issue around the world. Health care workers (HCWs) are at high risk of HBV infection because they have direct contact with HBV infected blood and body fluids in their work.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of HCWs towards hepatitis B infection in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 502 HCWs, between November 2018 and January 2019 by a simple random sampling method. The data was collected through a self-administered structured questionnaire. Using this questionnaire, demographic characteristics and KAP of HCWs was assessed. In addition, descriptive and inferential analyses was conducted on the collected data using SPSS 16 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA).

Results

The overall KAP scores of HCWs were found to be 86.58%, 34.73%, and 61.22%, respectively. Most of the participants correctly recognized the HBV infection. Among the participants, only 77.45% had undergone screening for HBV, and 56.37% had received HBV vaccine (p < 0.0001). Moreover, only 6.77% had completed the three doses of vaccination for HBV. Among the HCWs, the group with higher education level had better knowledge than the group with lower education level. However, the attitude of most of the participants towards HBV prevention was found to be inadequate (53.98%).

Conclusion

This study shows that HCWs in Kabul, Afghanistan are at high risk of HBV infection due to low vaccination coverage and inadequate infection control. Therefore, we strongly encourage providing an accessible and compulsory vaccination program for all HCWs to improve their attitude and awareness towards HBV infection and to achieve effective infection control.

Determinants of hepatitis B vaccination status in health care workers of two secondary care hospitals of Sindh, Pakistan: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Health care workers (HCWs) are at high risk of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) transmission. Hepatitis B vaccination is effective in protecting against HBV infection. Different factors influence HCW vaccination status such as lack of knowledge & awareness, cost, availability, and hesitancy. This study aimed to determine Hepatitis B vaccination status and factors influencing vaccination status in HCWs of two secondary care hospitals at Sindh, Pakistan.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted in two secondary care hospitals of Sindh, Pakistan. A total of 252 doctors, nurses, laboratory, and other HCWs were asked about the HBV vaccination coverage using a structured tool. Multivariable ordinal logistic regression was used to determine the association of participant's characteristics, vaccination knowledge with HBV vaccination coverage considering p-value ≤0.05 significant. Odds ratios with 95% confidence interval (CI) were reported.

RESULTS

Our study found that 64.9% doctors, 75.18% nurses, 58.3% allied HCWs, 40.0% laboratory staff, and 70.8% housekeeping staff were completely vaccinated. HCWs stated job entry requirement as the primary reason for complete vaccination (AOR 4.6, 95% CI 1.5-5.3) from the disease. HCWs working in Aga Khan hospital Karachi and who have received vaccination before working in that hospital had four-time higher odds for hepatitis B vaccination (AOR 4.3, 95% CI 1.7-4.9).

CONCLUSION

Two-third of the HCWs were completely vaccinated in secondary care hospitals in Sindh, Pakistan. Hepatitis B vaccination should be made a job entry requirement to achieve more complete vaccination numbers. Vaccination policies require to implement for all part-timers and full-timer health care workers.

Adherence of community health workers to hepatitis B vaccination

Introduction: Hepatitis B (HB) vaccination for health-care workers is essential for World Health Organization’s goals achievement of viral hepatitis (VH) elimination. However, recent studies showed low vaccination adherence by these professionals and lack of knowledge about HB vaccination adherence of community health workers (CHW). Objective: To identify the adherence of CHW to HB vaccination; to determine the causes of non-adherence; to investigate whether the prevalence of vaccination is different among surveyed towns, and to verify whether years practiced as CHW have any association with vaccination adherence. Methods: This cross-sectional study included five towns (T) of a Brazilian state. Data were collected at VH educational meetings, in which CHW answered a questionnaire. The proportions Z-test and the likelihood ratio test were used for statistical analysis. Significance was set at p<0.05. Results: The sample included 516 CHW. Most CHW (86.8%) reported to have taken the vaccine, but only 59.7% affirmed having taken all doses, and 28.1% correctly answered the number of doses. 24.4% of CHW pointed the unknowing about HB vaccine importance as the main reason for non-adherence. T4 and T5 showed higher vaccination prevalence than T2 and T1. Vaccination adherence was higher among individuals with more years working as CHW. Conclusion: CHW demonstrated low adherence to HB vaccination and pointed the lack of knowledge about HB vaccine importance as the main reason for that. There were differences in vaccination prevalence among the towns and adherence was positively associated with professional experience.

Unmet needs in occupational health: prevention and management of viral hepatitis in healthcare workers in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: a mixed-methods study

OBJECTIVES

Vietnam is an endemic area for hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus infection (HBV-HCV), yet its largest city, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), has no comprehensive policy to educate, screen, treat and protect healthcare workers (HCWs) from viral hepatitis. We conducted a mixed-methods study to document HBV-HCV infection rates, risk factors, local barriers and opportunities for providing education, screening and medical care for HCWs.

DESIGN

This mixed-methods study involved an HBV and HCV serological evaluation, knowledge, attitude and practice survey about viral hepatitis and many in-depth interviews. Descriptive statistics and thematic content analysis using inductive and deductive approaches were used.

SETTING

HCMC, Vietnam.

PARTICIPANTS

HCWs at risk of viral hepatitis exposure at three hospitals in HCMC.

RESULTS

Of the 210 invited HCWs, 203 were enrolled. Of the 203 HCWs enrolled, 20 were hepatitis B surface antigen-positive, 1 was anti-hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV Ab)-positive, 57 were anti-hepatitis B core Ab-positive and 152 had adequate anti-hepatitis B surface Ab (anti-HBs Ab) titre (≥10IU/mL). Only 50% of the infected HCWs reported always using gloves during a clinical activity involving handling of blood or bodily fluid. Approximately 50% of HCWs were still not vaccinated against HBV following 1 year of employment. In-depth interviews revealed two major concerns for most interviewees: the need for financial support for HBV-HCV screening and treatment in HCWs and the need for specific HBV-HCV guidelines to be independently developed.

CONCLUSIONS

The high HBV infection rate in HCWs coupled with inadequate preventive occupational practices among the population in HCMC highlight the urgent needs to establish formal policy and rigorous education, screening, vaccination and treatment programmes to protect HCWs from HBV acquisition or to manage those living with chronic HBV in Vietnam.

Global prevalence of hepatitis B virus serological markers among healthcare workers: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a global public health concern that affects about 2 billion people and causes 1 million people deaths yearly. HBV is a blood-borne disease and healthcare workers (HCWs) are a high-risk group because of occupational hazard to patients' blood. Different regions of the world show a highly variable proportion of HCWs infected and/or immunized against HBV. Global data on serologic markers of HBV infection and immunization in HCWs are very important to improve strategies for HBV control.

AIM

To determine the worldwide prevalence of HBV serological markers among HCWs.

METHODS

In this systematic review and meta-analyses, we searched PubMed and Excerpta Medica Database (Embase) to identify studies published between 1970 and 2019 on the prevalence of HBV serological markers in HCWs worldwide. We also manually searched for references of relevant articles. Four independent investigators selected studies and included those on the prevalence of each of the HBV serological markers including hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis e antigen (HBeAg), immunoglobulin M anti-HBc, and anti-HBs. Methodological quality of eligible studies was assessed and random-effect model meta-analysis resulted in the pooled prevalence of HBV serological markers HBV infection in HCWs. Heterogeneity (I²) was assessed using the χ² test on Cochran's Q statistic and H parameters. Heterogeneity' sources were explored through subgroup and metaregression analyses. This study is registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42019137144.

RESULTS

We reviewed 14059 references, out of which 227 studies corresponding to 448 prevalence data among HCWs (224936 HCWs recruited from 1964 to 2019 in 71 countries) were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled seroprevalences of current HBsAg, current HBeAg, and acute HBV infection among HCWs were 2.3% [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.9-2.7], 0.2% (95%CI: 0.0-1.7), and 5.3% (95%CI: 1.4-11.2), respectively. The pooled seroprevalences of total immunity against HBV and immunity acquired by natural HBV infection in HCWs were 56.6% (95%CI: 48.7-63.4) and 9.2% (95%CI: 6.8-11.8), respectively. HBV infection was more prevalent in HCWs in low-income countries, particularly in Africa. The highest immunization rates against HBV in HCWs were recorded in urban areas and in high-income countries including Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean and the Western Pacific.

CONCLUSION

New strategies are needed to improve awareness, training, screening, vaccination, post-exposure management and treatment of HBV infection in HCWs, and particularly in low-income regions.

Hepatitis B and C virus infection among healthcare workers in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Healthcare workers are at risk of acquiring hepatitis B and C virus infections through patients' blood and bodily fluids exposure. So far, there is no pooled data that shows the prevalence of HBV and HCV among health care workers in Africa. This study aimed to determine the pooled prevalence of hepatitis B and C infections among health care workers in Africa.

METHODS

Studies reporting the prevalence of HBV and HCV were identified from major databases and gray literature. PubMed, CINAHL, POPLINE, ScienceDirect, African Journals Online (AJOL), and Google Scholar were systematically searched to identify relevant studies. A random-effect model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of hepatitis B and C among health care workers in Africa. The heterogeneity of studies was assessed using Cochran Q statistics and I2 tests. Publication bias was assessed using Begg's tests.

RESULT

In total, 1885 articles were retrieved, and 44 studies met the inclusion criteria and included in the final analysis. A total of 17,510 healthcare workers were included. The pooled prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection among health care workers in Africa is estimated to be 6.81% (95% CI 5.67-7.95) with a significant level of heterogeneity (I2 = 91.6%; p < 0.001). While the pooled prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection using the random-effects model was 5.58% (95% CI 3.55-7.61) with a significant level of heterogeneity (I2 = 95.1%; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Overall, one in fifteen and more than one in twenty healthcare workers were infected by HBV and HCV, respectively. The high burden of HBV and HCV infections remains a significant problem among healthcare workers in Africa.

Screening, Vaccination Uptake and Linkage to Care for Hepatitis B Virus among Health Care Workers in Rural Sierra Leone

This study reports on the prevalence and risk factors of chronic HBV among health care workers (HCWs) in a rural secondary hospital in Sierra Leone. Additionally, data on the uptake of HBV vaccination among negatively tested HCWs and on the linkage to care among positively tested HCWs are presented. In December 2019, 781 HCWs were invited to a screening and vaccination campaign at Koidu Government Hospital in Kono District. For each HCW, demographic information and data on their HBV risk history were captured, followed by a hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) test. HCWs with a negative test result were offered an HBV vaccine on the same day, after one and six months. HCWs that were HBsAg positive were linked to a free HBV clinic. In total, 80% (632) of HCWs were screened. Among the screened, 97% had never received an HBV vaccine and 10.3% (n = 65) had chronic HBV. The following characteristics were associated with being HBsAg positive: aged less than 30 years old (aOR 2.17, CI 1.16–4.03, p = 0.01), male gender (aOR 2.0, CI 1.06–3.78, p = 0.03), working experience of 1–4 years (aOR 3.99, CI 1.15–13.73, p = 0.03) and over 9 years (aOR 6.16, CI 1.41–26.9, p = 0.02). For HBsAg-negative HCWs (n = 567), 99.8% (n = 566), 97.5% (n = 553) and 82.7% (n = 469) received their first, second and third dose of the vaccine, respectively. For HBsAg-positive HCWs (n = 65), 73.9% (n = 48) were successfully linked to an HBV clinic for further care. Most HCWs are unvaccinated for HBV, and the HBV prevalence amongst this at-risk group is high. Uptake of vaccination and linkage to care was successful.

Increasing hepatitis B vaccination coverage of healthcare workers - global lessons for South Africa

Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at high risk of contracting hepatitis B (HB), a severe blood-borne vaccine-preventable disease, caused by HB virus (HBV) infection. Low HB vaccine (HepB) coverage has resulted in suboptimal protection and high HBV infection rates in South African HCWs. Studies from Africa have identified cost; unavailability/lack of access to HepB; and lack of awareness/knowledge of HB and HepB, as barriers to HCW uptake. Studies from Europe show little difference in HepB coverage between countries mandating versus recommending HepB. Providing easy and sustained access to free HepB to student HCWs, together with education about HB and HepB, are recommended to create demand for HepB. Only if this fails should mandatory vaccination be considered.

From national HBV and HDV screenings to vaccination and treatment in healthcare workers: The Mauritanian pilot study

OBJECTIVES

Hepatitis B and D infections are highly endemic in Mauritania, with prevalences ranging from 10 to 20%. With the present prospective transversal pilot study, we aimed to evaluate the prevalences of HBV, HCV, and HDV infections in healthcare workers (HCWs), and offer treatment or vaccination as required.

METHODS

At inclusion, each HCW was screened for anti-HBc Ab (followed by HBsAg assay when positive). Additional biological analyses were performed for HBsAg + cases. Depending on the results, HBV vaccination or anti-viral treatment was offered.

RESULTS

A total of 3,857 HCWs were included, of whom 1,363 tested negative for anti-HBc Ab and received full vaccination. Of the 2,494 HCWs who were positive for anti-HBc Ab, 1,246 were positive for anti-HBs Ab and 418 were positive for HBsAg. Three HCWs were positive for HBeAg; 66 and 18 had HBV DNA levels respectively > 2,000 and > 20,000 IU/mL; and 48 were positive for anti-HDV Ab among whom 10 were positive for HDV RNA. HCV prevalence was 0.5%. Only seven HCWs fulfilled the criteria for treatment and five of them were treated.

CONCLUSION

Few HCWs in Mauritania are immunised against HBV. The prevalences of anti-HBc Ab and HBsAg observed in this work were similar to those observed in our earlier works, whereas prevalence of active HDV infection was less high. HBV and HDV infections are a serious health concern in Mauritania. New recommendations developed in accordance with WHO guidelines should include mandatory HBV screening and immunisation for HCWs.

Frequency of hepatitis B and C in health care providers at three referral hospitals in Libya

Introduction

the aim of the present study was to determine the frequency of HBsAg and anti-HCV antibodies in health care providers (HCPs) at three referral hospitals in Libya, and to correlate the HBsAg status with history of hepatitis B vaccination among HCPs.

Methods

one hundred eighty-two HCPs, with a mean age (±SD) of 32.9±8 years and age range from 20 to 59 years, were enrolled in this study. They were 50 doctors, 68 nurses, 42 laboratory technicians, 12 hospital cleaners, five anesthesia technicians and five midwives. They were tested, after obtained a written consent, for the presence of HBsAg and anti-HCV antibodies by enzyme linked immuno-sorbent assay (ELISA) techniques. A pre-test questionnaire was filled by each HCP to verify place of work, working period, type of work, status of HBV vaccination, and history of needle stick injury.

Results

four HCPs have anti-HCV antibodies positive (2.2%) and nine were HBsAg positive (4.9%). Only 52% (95/182) of the HCPs received full dose of hepatitis B vaccine, while the others either not completed the vaccination schedule or have not receive it. One hundred (54.9%) of the participants had exposed to blood via needle stick injury during their work, 6 (6%) of them were HBsAg positive and three (3%) were anti-HCV positive. Needle stick injury was considered as primary risk factor in 66.7% (6/9 HCPs) of HBsAg-positives and 75% (3/4 subjects) of anti-HCV-positives.

Conclusion

the present study showed a higher frequency of HBsAg than anti-HCV among HCPs in three major hospitals in Libya. This difference may be explained by the low hepatitis B vaccination rate and the high rate of needle stick injury among this high risk group for these infections.

Full-dose hepatitis B virus vaccination coverage and associated factors among health care workers in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

The hepatitis B vaccine is the backbone of hepatitis B prevention. All health care workers must receive a full-dose (3-dose vaccine series) to achieve >90% protection against hepatitis B virus. There is limited evidence available on vaccination coverage of HBV among health care workers in Ethiopia. Therefore, the objective of this study was to estimate the national full-dose hepatitis B vaccination coverage and the associated factors among health care workers in Ethiopia.

METHODS

Studies were retrieved from PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, SCOPUS, CINAHL, and Google Scholar by using a combination of search terms with Boolean operators. The quality of each study was evaluated independently by three authors using the modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) for cross-sectional studies. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA™ Version 14 software. Meta-analysis was carried out using a random-effects (DerSimonian and Laird) method. The heterogeneity test was conducted by using I-squared (I2) statistics. Leave-one-out sensitivity analysis was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 15 articles with 5734 participants were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of full-dose hepatitis B virus vaccination coverage among health care workers in Ethiopia was 20.04% (95% CI: 13.83, 26.26); I2 = 98.9%). Being male sex (p = 0.002), having work experience of less than 5 years (p < 0.001), educational level of diploma and below (p = 0.003), health care providers who received training on infection prevention (p < 0.001), and those who had a history of exposure to blood and body fluids (p = 0.001), were factors significantly associated with full-dose hepatitis B virus vaccination.

CONCLUSION

The national full-dose hepatitis B vaccination coverage among health care workers was low. Training of health care workers in infection prevention, particularly in hepatitis B and testing and providing hepatitis B vaccination for newly recruited staff and every 5 years for those long-term workers were recommended to increase the uptake of the vaccine.

Hepatitis B Awareness and Vaccination Patterns among Healthcare Workers in Africa

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination patterns and the understanding of its risks among healthcare workers (HCWs) is a critical step to decrease transmission. However, the depth of this understanding is understudied. We distributed surveys to HCWs in 12 countries in Africa. Surveys had nine multiple-choice questions that assessed HCWs' awareness and understanding of HBV. Participants included consultants, medical trainees, nurses, students, laboratory personnel, and other hospital workers. Surveys were completed anonymously. Fisher's exact test was used for analysis, with a P-value of < 0.05 considered significant; 1,044 surveys were collected from Kenya, Egypt, Sudan, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Uganda, Malawi, Madagascar, Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, and Sierra Leone. Hepatitis B virus serostatus awareness, vaccination rate, and vaccination of HCWs' children were 65%, 61%, and 48%, respectively. Medical trainees had higher serostatus awareness, vaccination rate, and vaccination of their children than HCWs in other occupations (79% versus 62%, P < 0.001; 74% versus 58%, P < 0.001; and 62% versus 45%, P = 0.006, respectively). Cost was cited as the most frequent reason for non-vaccination. West African countries were more aware of their serostatus but less often vaccinated than East African countries (79% versus 59%, P < 0.0001 and 52% versus 60%, P = 0.03, respectively). West African countries cited cost as the reason for non-vaccination more than East African countries (59% versus 40%, P = 0.0003). Our study shows low HBV serostatus awareness and vaccination rate among HCWs in Africa, and reveals gaps in the perception and understanding of HBV prevention that should be addressed to protect HCWs and improve their capacity to control HBV infection.

Prevalence and attitude towards hepatitis B vaccination among healthcare workers in a tertiary hospital in Ghana

Introduction

adequate knowledge on hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is important among healthcare workers (HCWs) as this impacts the vaccination seeking behaviour. This study sought to assess the knowledge, vaccination status and related factors amongst HCWs in a tertiary facility in Ghana.

Methods

an analytical cross-sectional study was conducted amongst full-time HCWs of different categories at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, Ghana. Stratified sampling was used to arrive at the number needed for each category of HCW and then simple random sampling to recruit participants. A structured self-administered questionnaire was used. Descriptive statistics and logistics regression were carried out on the data.

Results

a total of 303 HCWs participated with 78.07% (n=235) being between 20-30 years, and majority being females (62.38%, n=189). A total of 186 (61.39%) participants had adequate knowledge, mean knowledge score was 4.73/7 (±0.97). About 80% (n=218) had received the 3 doses of HBV vaccine. Among the unvaccinated, cost was the major barrier (62.07%, n=18). Participants who did not know that HBV was more infectious than HIV (aOR=5.31, 95%CI: 1.91-14.77), p<0.001) and those who did not have knowledge that HBV vaccine was effective were more likely to be unvaccinated (aOR=8.63, 95%CI: 2.99–24.94), p<0.0001). The gender and cadre of staff did not show statistical evidence of an association with vaccination status.

Conclusion

knowledge on HBV is paramount for all HCWs as well as the importance of receiving the full doses of the hepatitis B vaccines. Barriers to vaccination must be removed to ensure protection of HCWs.

High level of vaccination and protection against hepatitis B with low rate of HCV infection markers among hospital health care personnel in north of Iran: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

hepatitis B virus (HBV) and C virus (HCV) are among the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Health care personnel (HCP) are subjected to increased risk of these infections. Therefore, HBV vaccination and post-vaccination serologic testing (PVST) are recommended for them. Our objectives in this study were investigate how well the vaccination guidelines for hospital HCPs were implemented. Moreover, the prevalence rates of HBV and HCV infections were calculated. To determine the presence of immunological memory, vaccinated personnel negative to antibody against HB surface antigen with one dose of HB vaccine were boosted.

METHODS

From 1 July to 30 November 2017, a cross-sectional study among HCPs working in public hospitals were conducted. All HCPs from various professional categories potentially at risk of exposure to contaminated sources were included. The information was gathered via interview and self-administered questionnaire. The questions were focused on the demographic characteristics, HB vaccination and immunity status and time elapsed since initial vaccination series, and frequency of needelstick injuries during the past 12 months of their work. Moreover, the prevalence rate of HBV and HCV infections were calculated. To determine the presence of immunological memory, subjects negative to HBV seromarkers received a booster dose of the vaccine.

RESULTS

A total of 186 out of 766 participants were male and nurses comprised 71% of personnel. Although all HCP were vaccinated, 84% of them completed the course and less than 5% of them received PVST. According to the results, 0.78, 4.6, and 83% were serologically positive to HBV surface antigen, antibodies against HBV core, and S antigens, respectively. Approximately, 91% of seronegative participants responded to a booster dose and only 0.91% of the personnel was anti-HCV positive.

CONCLUSION

Most HCP received full HBV vaccination course. Although a minority did PVST, the HBV vaccine-induced long-term protection and HB vaccine booster were not required. Therefore, policies should be made to increase the rate PVST after immunization. According to the results, the HCV infection rate was low and thus pre-recruitment screening was not necessary.

Assessing the prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection among health care workers in a referral hospital in Kisantu, Congo DR: a pilot study

We aimed to determine hepatitis B virus (HBV) prevalence and risk factors for health care workers (HCWs) to contract HBV infection in a referral hospital in the Democratic Republic of Congo. From October 2015 to August 2016, we recruited 97 HCWs (55 males and 42 females, aged 41.2 ± 10 yr) from Kisantu St. Luke's Hospital, a Congolese referral hospital located in the province of Kongo Central. Serum samples were assayed for HBV markers using ELISA. A questionnaire was used to record the HCWs' demographics, medical histories, and risk factors. The overall prevalence of exposure to HBV infection [HBsAg+, and/or hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc)+] was 56.7% (55/97). HBsAg positivity was found in 18.6% (18/97) of the HCWs whereas 29.9% (29/97) were anti-HBc positive. Approximately 8.2% (8/97) of the HCWs tested positive for both HBsAg and anti-HBc. Being a physician [odds ratio (OR)=2.8 (95% CI: 1.34-12.23)], a laboratory technician [OR=3.35 (95% CI: 1.35-5.21)], and having multiple sex partners [OR=3.05 (95% CI: 1.13-9.09)] were found to be factors associated with HBV infection. Exposure to HBV is common among HCWs at Kisantu St. Luke's Hospital. Isolated HBsAg was also prevalent among them. There is a high risk that HBV could be spread to others. Therefore, there is an urgent need for HBV screening, treatment, and vaccination policies.

Healthcare workers' vaccination at European and Italian level: a narrative review

Today some vaccine-preventable diseases remain an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide despite the availability of new vaccines. Healthcare workers are particularly at risk to acquire an infection disease, playing a fundamental role in nosocomial transmission, which makes them an important target group for vaccination. The vaccination recommendations of HCWs, as well as the general population, differ from country to country. Furthermore, coverage rates vary widely a lot over the world, making HCWs vulnerable to disease and so healthcare settings to outbreaks. The motivations of vaccine hesitancy are many and maybe other studies would help policymakers and stake-holders to shape programs to improve vaccination coverage and the control of infectious diseases through the correct application of guidelines on prevention. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Post Hepatitis B vaccination sero-conversion among health care workers in the Cape Coast Metropolis of Ghana

Background

HBV vaccine is known to offer protection against transmission of HBV infection. Health care workers are mandated to have this vaccination as part of their occupational health safety measures. Post vaccination response data for HCWs in our setting is not available. This study therefore aimed to evaluate the anti-HBs titre levels after Hepatitis B vaccination among HCWs from selected heath facilities in the Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana.

Methods

A multicenter (3 selected sites) analytical cross-sectional study involving 711 HCWs was conducted. Five (5mls) of blood samples were collected from each study participant and the serum used for HBV immunological profile testing anti-HBs quantification by ELISA test (Fortress Diagnostics Limited, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom). Data analyses were performed using Stata version 14.0 software (STATA Corp, Texas USA).

Results

The median age of participants was 29 years (IQR = 26–35 years). Majority (80.9%, n = 575) took their vaccination from Government health facilities compared with 19.1% (n = 136) from private vaccination sources. A total of 7 (3 males and 4 females) were found to be HBsAg positive giving prevalence of 1%. In all, 8.2% (n = 58) of the HCWs had anti-HBs titre levels <10IU/ml giving a sero-protection rate of 91.8%. HCWs who received 3 doses of HBV vaccine were more likely to be sero-protected as compared to those who received only one dose in multivariate analysis (aOR = 3.39, 95%CI: 1.08–10.67), p<0.037). Gender, cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption were not found to be associated with sero-protection.

Conclusion

There is a high HBV vaccine efficacy among HCWs in the Cape Coast Metropolis of Ghana with higher prevalence of anti-HBs titre level associated with full vaccine dose adherence. Post vaccination antibody titre determination could be an integral part of HBV vaccination protocol for HCWs in Ghana.