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Kimera A, Atuyambe L, Mutyaba H, Nantongo C, Namagembe A, Nalumansi AM, Basenero A, Auma P, Mukiza N, Mutyoba J. Prevalence and factors associated with hepatitis b vaccination uptake and completion among communities targeted for mass vaccination in gulu: a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:866. [PMID: 38509496 PMCID: PMC10956285 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18330-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is associated with several acute and long-term complications and vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention. A recent outbreak in Gulu, Uganda, one of the districts covered by a mass vaccination campaign, suggests low uptake of HBV vaccination. This study aims to determine the uptake and completion of HBV vaccination and associated factors among residents of Gulu, Uganda. METHODS A mixed methods cross-sectional study was conducted in Gulu, Northern Uganda, among 434 adult residents. A pretested questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographics, perceptions, and knowledge of HBV vaccination. Modified Poisson regression analysis was used in STATA 14 software to obtain prevalence ratios for the association between the independent and dependent variables. For qualitative data, 9 key informant interviews were conducted and thematic analysis was done using Quirkos software. RESULTS Out of the 434 respondents, 41.9% had received at least one dose of the hepatitis B vaccine, 32.5% had received at least 2 doses, and only 20% had completed all 3 doses, with an overall completion rate of 47.8% for participants who had been initiated on the vaccine. Gender, residence, risk perception of Hepatitis B infection, perceived safety of the vaccine, and awareness of mass vaccination were associated with uptake of Hepatitis B vaccination. Residence, knowledge, and perception of being at risk of acquiring Hepatitis B were associated with completion. Qualitative results revealed that the levels of uptake and completion could have been affected by access to vaccination sites; inadequate knowledge about the disease; myths about the vaccine and inadequate community engagement. CONCLUSION Low Hepatitis B vaccine uptake and completion rates were observed in Gulu. To enhance vaccination coverage, future initiatives should prioritize awareness, education, and dispelling of vaccination myths. Additionally, increased government investment in training health workers can serve as a valuable strategy to improve information dissemination and awareness among the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Kimera
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Lynn Atuyambe
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Huzaifa Mutyaba
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Claire Nantongo
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Agnes Namagembe
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | | | - Joan Mutyoba
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
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Niu Z, Zhang P. Analysis of Serum Anti-HBs Levels and HBsAg/HBeAg Markers in Children and Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study. Viral Immunol 2024; 37:107-114. [PMID: 38447125 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2023.0121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a global public health concern, and China continues to face a high burden of HBV cases. Vaccination plays a critical role in controlling and eradicating HBV. However, studies have shown that some individuals may experience waning immunity over time, highlighting the importance of enhanced immunization strategies. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between age, gender, and anti-HBs antibody levels, as well as the prevalence of serum hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)/HBV e antigen (HBeAg) positivity. This retrospective study included 43,609 pediatric patients who visited the outpatient department between January 2013 and December 2022. Serum biomarkers (HBsAg, anti-HBs, HBeAg, anti-HBe, and anti-HBc) were measured using Roche Cobas 8000. There is a significant difference in anti-HBs titer between genders and across different age groups (p < 0.05). The serological markers HBsAg/HBeAg exhibited the highest positivity rate in the age group of 15-18 years. The findings demonstrate a gradual decrease in anti-HBs levels following HBV vaccination. The prevalence of serum markers HBsAg/HBeAg is higher among adolescents aged 15-18 years, which should be a matter of concern and attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhili Niu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Translational Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Pingan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Translational Medicine, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R. China
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Obeng MA, Okwan DK, Adankwah E, Owusu PK, Gyamerah SA, Duah KB, Paintsil EK. Seroconversion and Prevalence of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen among Vaccinated Health Care Workers in Ashanti Region, Ghana. Adv Med 2023; 2023:2487837. [PMID: 38149294 PMCID: PMC10751156 DOI: 10.1155/2023/2487837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Health care workers (HCWs) constantly stand at a high risk of exposure to the hepatitis B virus because of the nature of their work. Hence, it is mandatory for HCWs to undergo hepatitis B vaccination. However, most HCWs in Ghana do not check their HBsAb titre after completion of their primary vaccination. This study assessed the prevalence of HBsAg and the seroconversion rate among vaccinated health care workers in the Ashanti Region, Ghana. Materials and Methods A semistructured open-ended questionnaire was pretested and administered to 424 HCWs. Two (2) ml of blood was drawn and qualitative analyses (HBsAg, HBsAb, HBeAg, HBeAb, and HBcAb) were done on the blood samples. Samples that tested positive to HBsAb were quantified using ELISA. Data obtained were analysed using GraphPad Prism 9. Results Out of the 424 study participants, 271 (63.9%) were females and 153 (36.1%) were males. Seroconversion (≥1 mIU/mL) and seroprotection (≥10 mIU/mL) through vaccination only among study participants were 67.5% (n/N = 286/424) and 58.0% (n/N = 246/424), respectively. Prevalence of hepatitis B viral infection was 2.4% (n/N = 10/424). Anti-HBc seropositivity was 13.2%, and anti-HBs seronegativity was 24.1%. 2.4% (n/N = 10/424) of study participants were negative to HBsAg but positive to HBcAb. In addition, 8.5% (n/N = 36/424) of the study participants were seroprotected due to exposure and recovery from previous HBV infection. Age, the number of doses received, taking a booster dose, and keeping a vaccination record card were significant factors influencing seroconversion status. Conclusion This study reaffirms the need for HCWs to undergo a supervised primary hepatitis B vaccination course. Postvaccination serological testing should be done for all HWCs to confirm immunity and reduce their chances of contracting HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Agyemang Obeng
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Daniel Kobina Okwan
- Department of Anatomy, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Ernest Adankwah
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Samuel Asante Gyamerah
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Kluivert Boakye Duah
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Ellis Kobina Paintsil
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Nikolopoulou GB, Tzoutzas I, Tsakris A, Maltezou HC. Hepatitis B in Healthcare Personnel: An Update on the Global Landscape. Viruses 2023; 15:2454. [PMID: 38140695 PMCID: PMC10748141 DOI: 10.3390/v15122454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the outstanding progress that has been made in the prevention, detection, and management of hepatitis B during the past decades, hepatitis B remains a problem among healthcare personnel (HCP) in many countries. We reviewed studies on all aspects of hepatitis B in HCP published from 2017 through April 2023. They revealed wide variations on the prevalence of infection among HCP, ranging from 0.6% in Europe to >8.7% in Africa, almost always in association with very low vaccination rates. Many studies found a significant association between HCP's knowledge about hepatitis B and hepatitis B vaccines, their vaccination status, and practices. This research also discloses global inequities regarding vaccination policies against hepatitis B, free-of-charge vaccinations, and access to post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Strategies to prevent and manage accidental exposures are needed in order to reduce the burden of hepatitis B on HCP, while written policies for all aspects of infection prevention, protective equipment, and PEP should be available. Lastly, HCP should be accordingly educated. These are all imperative given the decline of routine vaccinations in the COVID-19 era, particularly in countries with fragile vaccination programs, and the disruptions of interventions for hepatitis B that are expected to provide a pool of virus transmission to future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia B. Nikolopoulou
- Department of Hepatitis, National Public Health Organization, 3-5 Agrafon Street, 15123 Athens, Greece;
| | - Ioannis Tzoutzas
- School of Dentistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 2 Thivon Street, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Athanasios Tsakris
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Helena C. Maltezou
- Directorate of Research, Studies and Documentation, National Public Health Organization, 3-5 Agrafon Street, 15123 Athens, Greece
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Amoah S, Yartey AN, Fosu Adjei P, Owusu-Akyaw M, Boachie J, Simpong DL, Adu P. 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. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 2023:9318984. [PMID: 37475793 PMCID: PMC10356218 DOI: 10.1155/2023/9318984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Amoah
- University of Cape Coast Hospital Laboratory, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | | | - Praise Fosu Adjei
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Margaret Owusu-Akyaw
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Joseph Boachie
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - David Larbi Simpong
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Patrick Adu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, Cape Coast, Ghana
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Meriki HD, Tufon KA, Georges TD, Mokake NDM, Gobina RM, Tony NJ, Kwenti TE, Bolimo AF, Esembeson M, Cyrille N, Yolande FDP, Itoe IR, Beltine T, Nkuo-Akenji T, Anong DN. Epidemiological factors associated with HBV infection and uptake of testing in south west region of Cameroon: What can be done to scale up HBV testing in our setting? PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000321. [PMID: 36962231 PMCID: PMC10021278 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B infection affects millions of people globally, partly due to its high degree of transmissibility and asymptomatic nature. This study was aimed at identifying prevailing epidemiological factors associated with HBV infection and testing uptake in the South West region of Cameroon. This hospital-based case-control study enrolled HBV infected participants and "healthy" controls ≥18 years old. Venous blood collected from participants was used to conduct HBV panel test (HBsAg, anti-HBs, HBeAg, anti-HBe, anti-HBc). Data on demographic and behavioral risk factors as well as reasons for taking the HBV test for the first time were collected using a questionnaire. A total of 424 participants were enrolled (212 "healthy" controls and 212 HBV infected cases). Male sex (odds ratio [OR] = 2.08, p = 0.010), ≤ secondary education level (OR = 4.83, p<0.001), low-income level (OR = 3.79, p<0.001), rural settlement (OR = 2.17, p = 0.031), history of sexually transmitted infections (STI) (OR = 4.24, p<0.001) and ignorance of sexual partners HBsAg status (OR = 2.70, p = 0.003) all had an independent and significant association with HBV infection. Top 3 reasons for doing HBsAg test were free screening (40.3%), blood donation (15.0%) and administrative requirements (14.9%). HBV testing uptake and early detection can be improved if more sensitization and free/opportunistic screenings are implemented. A significant drop in the cost of HBV test could encourage more people to get tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Dilonga Meriki
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
- Buea Regional Hospital, Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon
- Department of Allied Health, Biaka University Institute, Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon
- Department of Public Health and Hygiene, Faculty of Health Science, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
| | - Kukwah Anthony Tufon
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
- Buea Regional Hospital, Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon
- Department of Allied Health, Biaka University Institute, Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon
| | - Teuwafeu Denis Georges
- Buea Regional Hospital, Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Faculty of Health science, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
| | - Ngomba Divine Martin Mokake
- Buea Regional Hospital, Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Ronald Mbua Gobina
- Buea Regional Hospital, Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Faculty of Health science, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
| | - Nyeke James Tony
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
- Buea Regional Hospital, Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon
| | - Tebit Emmanuel Kwenti
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
- Buea Regional Hospital, Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon
- Department of Public Health and Hygiene, Faculty of Health Science, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Science, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
| | - Ayah Flora Bolimo
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
- Buea Regional Hospital, Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon
| | - Malika Esembeson
- Buea Regional Hospital, Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon
- Department of Public Health and Hygiene, Faculty of Health Science, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
| | - Nkouonlack Cyrille
- Buea Regional Hospital, Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Faculty of Health science, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
| | - Fokam Djike Puepi Yolande
- Buea Regional Hospital, Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics, Faculty of Health science, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
| | - Iyah Rebecca Itoe
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
- Buea Regional Hospital, Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon
| | - Tsamul Beltine
- Buea Regional Hospital, Buea, Southwest Region, Cameroon
| | - Theresa Nkuo-Akenji
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, University of Bamenda, Bamenda, North West Region, Cameroon
| | - Damian Nota Anong
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, University of Bamenda, Bamenda, North West Region, Cameroon
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Ngwa CH, Doungtsop BCK, Bihnwi R, Ngo NV, Yang NM. Burden of vaccine-preventable diseases, trends in vaccine coverage and current challenges in the implementation of the expanded program on immunization: A situation analysis of Cameroon. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2021; 18:1939620. [PMID: 34197271 PMCID: PMC8920166 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2021.1939620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery and development of vaccines remain one of the major successes of global health with millions of lives saved every year through routine vaccination. Although vaccines provide a safe and cost-effective solution to vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs), VPDs are still a serious public health problem in most parts of the world, especially in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and Asia. In this review, we discuss the burden of VPDs and vaccine coverage several decades after the introduction of the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) in Cameroon. We also discuss how different factors affect the implementation of the EPI, highlighting context-specific factors such as the ongoing civil conflict in Cameroon, and the presence of other infectious diseases like COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Che Henry Ngwa
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Centre for Languages and Literature, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | | | - Ngo Valery Ngo
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Niendum Mediatrice Yang
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Machmud PB, Glasauer S, Gottschick C, Mikolajczyk R. Knowledge, Vaccination Status, and Reasons for Avoiding Vaccinations against Hepatitis B in Developing Countries: A Systematic Review. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:625. [PMID: 34207829 PMCID: PMC8227242 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9060625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The coverage of hepatitis B vaccination remains low in developing countries to date. This systematic review thus analyzes the determinants of people's knowledge and vaccination status as well as the reasons why people in developing countries chose not to receive the hepatitis B vaccination. (2) Methods: We searched four databases to identify all studies from developing countries published within the past 10 years. Both low-risk and high-risk populations aged older than 15 years old were eligible for the study. The quality of studies was assessed by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale assessment. (3) Results: This study identified 2443 articles, 89 of which were included in the analysis. Monthly income, occupational status, and profession as a health-care worker were the strongest predictive factors for both knowledge of hepatitis B and vaccination status. In addition, strong predictor variables of hepatitis B knowledge were knowing an infected person and level of education, while health insurance, management's protection at workplace, infection training, and experience of hepatitis B exposure were strong influencing factors for vaccine uptake. (4) Conclusions: Exposure to information, support from institutions, and financial support related to vaccination cost have a positive impact on the knowledge about hepatitis B infection and vaccination coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Putri Bungsu Machmud
- Institute of Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics (IMEBI), Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Medical School of the Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Straße 8, 06112 Halle (Saale), Germany; (P.B.M.); (S.G.); (C.G.)
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Jl. Prof. Dr. Bahder Djohan, Depok 16424, Indonesia
| | - Saskia Glasauer
- Institute of Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics (IMEBI), Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Medical School of the Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Straße 8, 06112 Halle (Saale), Germany; (P.B.M.); (S.G.); (C.G.)
| | - Cornelia Gottschick
- Institute of Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics (IMEBI), Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Medical School of the Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Straße 8, 06112 Halle (Saale), Germany; (P.B.M.); (S.G.); (C.G.)
| | - Rafael Mikolajczyk
- Institute of Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics (IMEBI), Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences, Medical School of the Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Straße 8, 06112 Halle (Saale), Germany; (P.B.M.); (S.G.); (C.G.)
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Homeostatic regulation of T follicular helper and antibody response to particle antigens by IL-1Ra of medullary sinus macrophage origin. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2019798118. [PMID: 33875594 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2019798118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccines are composed of surface antigen HBsAg that spontaneously assembles into subviral particles. Factors that impede its humoral immunity in 5% to 10% of vaccinees remain elusive. Here, we showed that the low-level interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) can predict antibody protection both in mice and humans. Mechanistically, murine IL-1Ra-inhibited T follicular helper (Tfh) cell expansion and subsequent germinal center (GC)-dependent humoral immunity, resulting in significantly weakened protection against the HBV challenge. Compared to soluble antigens, HBsAg particle antigen displayed a unique capture/uptake and innate immune activation, including IL-1Ra expression, preferably of medullary sinus macrophages. In humans, a unique polymorphism in the RelA/p65 binding site of IL-1Ra enhancer associated IL-1Ra levels with ethnicity-dependent vaccination outcome. Therefore, the differential IL-1Ra response to particle antigens probably creates a suppressive milieu for Tfh/GC development, and neutralization of IL-1Ra would resurrect antibody response in HBV vaccine nonresponders.
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10
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Botchway ET, Agyare E, Seyram L, Owusu KK, Mutocheluh M, Obiri-Yeboah D. Prevalence and attitude towards hepatitis B vaccination among healthcare workers in a tertiary hospital in Ghana. Pan Afr Med J 2020; 36:244. [PMID: 33014240 PMCID: PMC7519783 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2020.36.244.24085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth Agyare
- Clinical Microbiology/Public Health Unit, Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Letsa Seyram
- School of Medical Sciences, College of Health and Allied Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast Ghana
| | | | - Mohamed Mutocheluh
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Dorcas Obiri-Yeboah
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, College of Health and Allied Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
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Evaluation of a hepatitis B virus protection intervention among interns at Zagazig University Hospitals, Egypt. Infect Dis Health 2019; 25:50-59. [PMID: 31767401 DOI: 10.1016/j.idh.2019.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Revised: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the most common serious liver infection. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of a HBV protection intervention on interns, as regards their knowledge, attitude and immune response to HB vaccine and to identify the factors affecting their compliance and immune response to HB vaccination at Zagazig University Hospitals. METHODS A quasi-experimental study was conducted in 3 phases over 10 months. Phase 1: assessment of knowledge, attitude and HCV/HBV immune status. Phase 2: the implementation of HBV protection campaign; vaccine administration and health education sessions. Phase 3: the assessment of the immune response to the vaccine and the change in knowledge and attitude. RESULTS Out of 120 participants, 60% were compliant to the vaccination schedule. Needle-stick injury, the seriousness of HBV infection and attendance of infection control courses are the motivating factors to vaccination (p < 0.05). After the 3rd dose, 9.7% were non-responders. BMI and diabetes were the statistically significant predictors of the immune response. The HCWs compliant with vaccination schedule had higher mean scores regarding; total knowledge (15.5 ± 2.1), p < 0.0001 and attitude (14.34 ± 3.8) p < 0.05. A significant improvement is recorded from the posttest results, p < 0.000. CONCLUSIONS A comprehensive protective program against HBV is an effective tool. A compulsory vaccination program is still needed for interns. Post vaccination monitoring program, including protective measures for vaccine non responders is urgently needed with strict follow up of at risk groups. Occult HBV cases should not be overlooked when screening for immune response to vaccine.
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Obiri-Yeboah D, Awuku YA, Adjei G, Cudjoe O, Benjamin AH, Obboh E, Amoako-Sakyi D. Post Hepatitis B vaccination sero-conversion among health care workers in the Cape Coast Metropolis of Ghana. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0219148. [PMID: 31251790 PMCID: PMC6599216 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0219148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorcas Obiri-Yeboah
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Yaw Asante Awuku
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - George Adjei
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Obed Cudjoe
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Anna Hayfron Benjamin
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Evans Obboh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Daniel Amoako-Sakyi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
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