Up to Date in Pregnancy: Assessing Vaccination Status in Hepatitis C-Positive Pregnant Persons [ID: 1372896

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most commonly reported bloodborne infection in the United States. Over 65% of infections are among people of childbearing age leading to increased perinatal transmission. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends HCV screening for all pregnant persons. Prior to HCV treatment, the hepatitis B (HBV) vaccination series is recommended. Per recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the HBV vaccination series should be given to unvaccinated pregnant persons. This study aims to assess the frequency of HCV-positive pregnant persons who are screened for HBV immunity. METHODS: A quality improvement project through retrospective chart review was performed at a single institution from October 2020 to October 2022. Patients identified as HCV positive in pregnancy were included. Data collected included patient demographics and infectious variables such as HCV viral load, HBV antigen/antibody testing, and whether patients underwent HCV treatment. RESULTS: From October 11, 2020, to October 11, 2022, 113 pregnant patients were noted to be HCV positive. Of this population, 95% were also screened with HBV antigen. Only 13 patients had a HBV surface antibody checked to assess vaccination or previous infection status, of whom 9 were previously immunized. In total, only 74% of patients had a HCV viral load checked, half of whom had a viral load present. Of the patients with a positive viral load, only 51% had planned or participated in HCV treatment. CONCLUSION: Pregnancy offers a unique opportunity to complete complex vaccination series for previously unimmunized individuals who are positive for HCV. This quality improvement project indicates a lack of screening and assessment for further HBV immunization in a vulnerable population.