Immunizations and oral health care providers

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Hepatitis B Vaccination among Dentists in Lebanon

BACKGROUND

The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a serious occupational hazard for healthcare workers, including dentists. The purpose of this study is to assess dentists' knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) with respect to hepatitis B vaccination.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional survey of a representative sample of dentists (n = 349) from Lebanon was carried out. Participants' knowledge of hepatitis B, attitudes toward vaccination, and immunization habits were assessed using a standardized questionnaire. To examine the data, descriptive statistics were used, and associations between variables were investigated using appropriate statistical tests.

RESULTS

The study found that most participating dentists are HBV-vaccinated. These dentists boast a basic to a significantly substantial understanding of HBV infection prevention strategies, such as immunization, routine preventive measures, and handling equipment. Notwithstanding the generally positive attitudes towards vaccination, a proportion of dentists lacked some HBV prevention practices, specifically with respect to conducting regular follow-ups of anti-HBs titer levels and getting booster vaccination doses when warranted.

CONCLUSION

This study sheds light on the KAP of hepatitis B immunization among Lebanese dentists. The findings emphasize the significance of focused educational efforts in view of improving awareness and encouraging a more thorough understanding of the benefits of vaccination. The study provides useful data that can be used to influence public health policies as well as activities aimed at increasing hepatitis B vaccination rates among dental professionals in Lebanon. How to cite this article: Yared G, Sokhn ES, Al-Khatib A, et al. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Hepatitis B Vaccination among Dentists in Lebanon. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(2):134-140.

Immunizations: An Evolving Paradigm for Oral Health Care Providers

Oral health care professionals are at risk for the transmission of bacterial and viral microorganisms. Providers need to be knowledgeable about the exposure/transmission of life-threatening infections and options for prevention. This article is designed to increase the oral health care provider's awareness of the latest assessment of vaccine-preventable diseases that pose a high risk in the dental health care setting. Specific dosing strategies are suggested for the prevention of infections based on available evidence and epidemiologic changes. This information will provide a clear understanding for prevention of vaccine-preventable diseases that pose a public health consequence.