Vaccination status and prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection among health-care workers in a tertiary health institution, Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major global health concern. The prevalence among health-care workers (HCWs) is about 13% in Nigeria. Although the vaccine has been found to be effective in preventing infection in 90–95% of recipients, its uptake among HCW is low. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and vaccination status of HCW in a tertiary health facility in Southeast Nigeria. Methods: The study was conducted at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUTH) to mark the 2018 World Hepatitis Day. The HCWs were sensitised through handbills, posters, memo to the different departments and an awareness walk. HCWs who presented voluntarily were screened. Data were collected using a pro forma and analysed. Results: Out of the 1720 staff at ESUTH, 241 (14.0%) were screened; 33.2% were classified as clinical staff, 43.9% worked in clinical departments and 25.3% and 6.6% had been previously screened and vaccinated, respectively. Only 2.1% were positive for hepatitis B surface antigen. Previous screening for hepatitis B, working in clinical departments and being a core clinical health worker were factors that were significantly associated with previous vaccination status. Positive predictors included previous screening and working in clinical departments. Conclusion/Recommendation: This study revealed low HBV screening and vaccination uptake among HCWs in Enugu state University Teaching hospital, and also low disease prevalence. Though the prevalence of HBV infection was low, organising more awareness-raising activities in the facility will improve prevention and further reduce prevalence.