HCV infection prevalence in a population recruited at health centers in Jordan

Abstract

BackgroundJordan lacks statistical data regarding prevalence of HCV. AimTo determine the prevalence of HCV in selected areas of Jordan (north, middle and south of Jordan). MethodsA random sample of 700 patients attending health centers was used to determine HCV prevalence. ELISA testing was used to determine HCV-Ab positive cases, which were confirmed by PCR testing. Results and conclusionThe study concluded that the prevalence of HCV infection in the population recruited from different health centers in Jordan is relatively low and estimates a prevalence of 0.42% among all age groups and 0.56% among those aged >15 years old.