Viruses (Jul 2022)

Hepatitis B and C in Immigrants and Refugees in Central Brazil: Prevalence, Associated Factors, and Immunization

  • Thaynara Lorrane Silva Martins,
  • Grazielle Rosa da Costa e Silva,
  • Carla de Almeida Silva,
  • Davi Oliveira Gomes,
  • Bruno Vinícius Diniz e Silva,
  • Megmar Aparecida dos Santos Carneiro,
  • Leonora Rezende Pacheco,
  • Natalia Motta de Araujo,
  • Margareth Santos Zanchetta,
  • Sheila Araujo Teles,
  • Karlla Antonieta Amorim Caetano

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/v14071534
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 14, no. 7
p. 1534

Abstract

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Introduction: Eliminating hepatitis B and C in immigrant and refugee populations is a significant challenge worldwide. Given the lack of information in Brazil, this study aimed to estimate the prevalence of infections caused by hepatitis B and C viruses and factors associated with hepatitis B in immigrants and refugees residing in central Brazil. Methods: An observational, cross-sectional, and analytical study was conducted from July 2019 to January 2020 with 365 immigrants and refugees. Hepatitis B was detected by a rapid immunochromatographic test, enzyme immunoassay, and chemiluminescence, and hepatitis C by rapid immunochromatographic test. Multiple analysis was used to assess factors associated with hepatitis B infection. Results: Of the participants, 57.8% were from Haiti and 35.6% were from Venezuela. Most had been in Brazil for less than 2 years (71.2%). The prevalence of HBV infection and exposure was 6.6% (95% CI: 4.5–9.6%) and 27.9% (95% CI: 23.6–2.8%), respectively, and 34% had isolated anti-HBs positivity. Reporting a sexually transmitted infection was statistically associated with HBV infection (OR: 7.8; 95% CI: 2.3–26.4). No participant with positive anti-HCV serology was found. Conclusions: The study showed that participants were outside the reach of prevention and control actions for hepatitis B. Therefore, public health strategies must be designed to reach, inform, and vaccinate this group.

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