Transmission Of Hepatitis B Virus Infection Research Articles

INTRA-FAMILIAL TRANSMISSION OF HEPATITIS B VIRUS IN ADEN -YEMEN

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major challenge to public health worldwide. Close contacts between susceptible family members and the index cases who live with HBV infection increase the rate intra-familial transmission of HBV. So our study aimed to determine the prevalence of HBV infection among family members of confirmed positive HBV patients and to identify the intra and extra-familial risk factors contributing for transmission of HBV infection among those members. Analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 family members who belong to the 14 index cases were included in this study, the average was 7.1(100/14) members. HBsAg in both index cases and family members was determined by using ELISA kit. Analysis of the data was performed by using SPSS (Version 21), the quantitative data were expressed as mean values, (SD) because the data was normal distributed. The qualitative data was expressed as percentages and χ2 test was used for comparison of two variables to determine the p- value where <0.05 was considered statistically significant. They were 50 (50 %) males with a total mean± SD of age were 25±15.9 years. The overall prevalence of HBV infection was 19 (19. 0%). The highest rates were 41.2% in age group 30—39 years, 22% males, 26.7% married, 19.4% among those family members who were in close contact with female index cases and 40% father relatives. A statistically significance association between HBV infection and age group 30—39 years (p=0.011). There were no positive cases was found among those members who were vaccinated against HBV and no significant association between HBV infection and either intra or extra risk factors among family members. It can be concluded that Intra-familial transmission of HBV infection was high among family member in Yemen. The highest prevalence was found in age group 30-39 years, males, married and among those family members who were in close contact with female index cases. The most frequent relatives with HBV infection were fathers, while a negative HBV cases was observed among mothers and wives and vaccinated members. There were no significant association between HBV infection and either intra or extra risk factors among family members.

Mother-to-Child Transmission of HBV Infection by Preventive Interventions in Southern Vietnam's Hospitals.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) for pregnant women with hepatitis B virus (HBV) presenting with HBV DNA levels of 106 copies/mL or more to hinder mother-to-child transmission (MTCT). Moreover, it is suggested that neonates of HBV-infected mothers receive an HBV vaccine birth dose within 24 hours of birth to mitigate transmission risk. The study included 661 HBV-infected pregnant women and 316 infants from 3 hospitals in Southern Vietnam between October 2019 and November 2020. Infants were classified on the basis of their mothers' TDF prophylaxis into I-TDF (+) group (107 infants) whose mothers received TDF; I-TDF (-) group (56 infants) whose mothers missed TDF; and I-NTDF group (153 infants) whose mothers did not necessitate TDF. Almost all infants received an HBV vaccine birth dose with HBIG administered on the basis of parents' financial standing. MTCT was found in 2.2% of the cases. The respective MTCT rates for I-TDF (+), I-TDF (-), and I-NTDF groups were 2.8%, 5.4%, and 0.7%. Immune response rates to the HBV vaccination in the total cohort, I-TDF (+), I-TDF (-), and I-NTDF groups, were 88.6%, 87.9%, 85.7%, and 90.2%, respectively. Vaccinated infants exhibited a statistically lower risk of HBV infection postbirth (aRR = 0.1; 95% confidence interval, 0.0-0.6; P = .01). TDF can equate the MTCT risk in pregnant women with HBV DNA levels of 106 copies/mL or more to those with lower levels. Early administration of the HBV vaccine postbirth also effectively curtails MTCT. Thus, expanding TDF prophylaxis and vaccine coverage is pivotal to impede MTCT.

Viral Hepatitis

Background: The primary goals of conducting surveillance for viral hepatitis are to direct prevention and control activities for these diseases and to evaluate the impact of these activities. Any person with a hepatitis virus infection is a potential source of infection to others. Surveillance would help accomplish the goals by providing information on:
 
 Creating a network of laboratories for diagnosis of viral hepatitis. 2. Monitor trends in incidence of and risk factors for disease.
 Assess burden of disease 4. Identify infected persons requiring counseling and /or post exposure prophylaxis. 5. Identify and control outbreaks.
 
 Methodology: Laboratory based targeted sousveillance in sentinel geographical regions/population. Clinical Case Definition: An acute illness with discrete onset of symptoms (e.g., fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, intermittent nausea, vomiting), and jaundice. (sourcewww.cdc.gov.in) NCDC will be the nodal agency for implementation of the project.
 Results: HBV, HCV and HDV are transmitted through contaminated blood or blood components or through the use of contaminated needles and syringes. In several populations, a common route of transmission of HBV infection is from infected pregnant women to their infants around the time of delivery. In many people with HBV or HCV infection, no route of transmission can be identified. In addition, specific vaccines and/or passive immune prophylaxis (use of specific immunoglobulin products) are also useful in preventing transmission of some infections. and also HAV vaccine is the most effective method for specific pre-exposure prophylaxis. and two different vaccines based on inactivated cell culture are available. Both vaccines are highly antigenic, especially in adults, and induce protective antibody levels in more than 95% of recipients after the first dose of vaccine. Individuals at high risk of repeated exposure to HBV, such as personnel Health Care Anti-HBs titer should be evaluated one month after the third dose. An Anti-HBs titer of 10 IU/L (or 10 mIU/mL) is protective. After reaching this titer, there is no need for further booster doses.
 Conclusion: Viral hepatitis is a systemic infection affecting predominantly the liver and causing its inflammation. It may be acute (recent infection, relatively rapid onset) or chronic. Viral hepatitis is caused by infection with one of the five known hepatotropic viruses, which are named as hepatitis A virus (HAV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis D virus (HDV), and hepatitis E virus (HEV), respectively. These viruses are quite divergent in their structure, epidemiology, routes of transmission, incubation period, clinical presentations, natural history, diagnosis, and preventive and treatment options.

'We are willing, but we have challenges': Qualitative enquiry on midwives' views on factors influencing the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B program.

Mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B infection is one of the major routes of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in Africa. Amusingly, Africa is the only region yet to meet the World Health Organization's target of reducing the prevalence of HBV infection to less than 1% among children under 5 years of age by 2020. In Ghana, little has been documented about midwives' views on the factors impacting the successful implementation of mother-to-child transmission via HBV prevention programs. This study explored midwives' views on the challenges associated with the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HBV infection in the La-Nkwantanang municipality. The study adopted an exploratory descriptive qualitative design and involved 14 midwives who were purposively recruited from a primary-level health facility in the La-Nkwantanang Municipality, Accra. Individual face-to-face interviews were conducted using an in-depth interview guide. The data were content analyzed using the six steps recommended by Braun and Clark. Three main themes, namely, health professional or midwife factors and patient and health facility factors, negatively impacted the prevention of maternal-to-child transmission program. The five subthemes identified in this study included lack of awareness, financial constraints, and unavailability of logistics and protocols. The study recognized that midwives face many challenges even though they have a strong desire to prevent vertical transmission of HBV. The implementation of a mother-to-child transmission program is negatively impacted by many intrinsic, client, and health facility factors. Midwives who act as major stakeholders need to be periodically trained on the components and protocols for managing pregnant women living with HBV. The necessary logistics and management protocols need to be urgently provided. The skills and education obtained from the training will empower midwives to be knowledgeable about how to deliver quality care and provide education and support for HBV-infected pregnant women. The provision of logistics needed for the successful implementation of the program could avert delays associated with the administration of the hepatitis B birth dose vaccine and immunoglobulin to exposed newborns.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Hepatitis B Virus Infection among a Cohort of Primary Health Care Workers in Nigeri

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection is one of the most infectious diseases globally. Nigeria is among the endemic countries for HBV, with a National prevalence of 11%. The Primary Healthcare Center (PHC) is critical for interrupting the transmission of HBV infection. Consequently, the baseline information concerning the prevalence, associated risk factors, and vaccination status of the health workers for HBV is required for the system strengthening, hence, the need for this study. To determine the prevalence of HBV among health workers in PHCs in AMAC, Abuja. 2. To identify the risk factors associated with HBV infection amongst this cohort. A hospital-based cross-sectional descriptive study involving 168 randomly selected PHC health workers. Data was collected with a structured questionnaire, and participants were screened for HBsAg. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21.0 with results significant at p-value < 0.05. 168 respondents participated in the study, 65.5% were females, and the mean age was 34 +/- 9 years. The full vaccination rate was 44%, while the prevalence of HBV infection was 4.8%. The history of dental procedure was the only significant predictor of HBV infection, and those who had the dental procedure were thrice more likely to be infected with HBV than their counterparts (OR: 3.077). The prevalence of HBV in this study is low, per, National prevalence, but high for this cohort of health workers with a considerable Hepatitis B vaccination rate. There is a need to strengthen health workers' HBV screening and vaccination in addition to improving infection prevention and control in dental clinics/surgeries. Keywords: HBV Infection, Health-worker, Primary Healthcare Center, Prevalence, Risk Factors.

Znanje i stavovi zdravstvenih profesionalaca zaposlenih u tercijarnim zdravstvenim ustanovama o hepatitisu B i merama prevencije

Introduction: Hepatitis B infection is an occupational disease of professionals healthcare professionals at the global level. It is estimated that 600,000 to 800,000 healthcare professionals in the world experience an accident at work. The results of evidence-based studies suggest that there is a gap in knowledge about HBV among healthcare professionals. Aim: The aim of this research is to assess knowledge and attitudes about the hepatitis B virus and prevention measures in the population of healthcare professionals employed in tertiary healthcare institutions in Montenegro. Material and Methods: A transversal prospective research ("cross-sectional" study) was conducted, where the results were obtained using the original author's questionnaire. The research was conducted in a tertiary level health institution (Clinical Center of Montenegro). The questionnaire was conducted on a voluntary and anonymous basis. Among the methods of inferential statistics, Pearson's rank coefficient and ANOVA test were used. Among the statistical methods, the Chi square test (X 2-test) was used. The results are shown in a table. The level of significance is p<0.05. Results: There were 272 health professionals who took part in the research, among whom the largest share in the research was nurses and technicians with a percentage of participation of 76.1%, then doctors 17.3%, laboratory technicians 5.5%. The majority of respondents were female gender 77%, while male respondents participated in the research with 23%. The average age of our respondents was 38.76 years. The results of our research showed a high level of knowledge of professionals healthcare professionals about the ways of transmission of HBV infection, while a significantly lower level of knowledge of professionals healthcare professionals about knowing the symptoms of HBV infection and the risk of developing certain diseases caused by this virus is recorded. Of the examined group of health professionals, 81.5% point out that they are often exposed to contact with the patient's blood in their work, while 52.2% of respondents state that in their previous work they had an accident in which they came into contact with the patient's blood one or more times. Conclusion: Analyzing the data obtained from the research, one gets the impression of incomplete information, knowledge and interest about the HBV virus among health professionals , especially when it comes to the respondents' knowledge of the symptoms of this infection, its risk for the occurrence of other diseases and the importance of general and specific prevention. In this regard, as a proposal for measures to be planned and implemented in KCCG, it would primarily refer to the continuous education of employees at all levels of education.

Post Hepatitis B Vaccination Sero-Conversion among Health Care Workers in a Referral Hospital Tanzania: A Cross Sectional Study

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) vaccine is known to offer protection against transmission of HBV infection. Health care workers are required to have this vaccination as part of their occupational health safety measure. Post vaccination immunological response data for HCWs in our setting is not available.

Horizontal Modes of Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Horizontal transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a significant transmission route in households, among contact sport athletes and institutionalized individuals. Children often are infected by non-sexual close contacts with an increased tendency to become chronic carriers. Hence, the awareness about various high-risk behaviours leading to horizontal transmission in the community is essential. A systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out to assess quantitatively the pooled prevalence of horizontally transmitted HBV infection globally. The study was started after ruling out registered or ongoing systematic reviews related to this topic in the PROSPERO database. The study protocol was documented in PROSPERO with a registration number CRD42021235165. We searched electronic databases for published articles in English between 1981 and April 2021 reporting horizontal modes of hepatitis B transmission among unvaccinated contacts. Meta-analysis was carried out in STATA version 13.0 (College Station, Texas 77,845 USA). The forest plots were constructed using metaprop package in STATA. Forty-one studies were systematically reviewed and 15 studies were qualified for the meta-analysis, including 1619 hepatitis B cases and 4869 contacts. The overall pooled prevalence of horizontally transmitted HBV infection among the contacts was 38% (95% CI 30%-46%). The pooled prevalence among 3,912 household contacts from nine qualified studies was estimated as 44% (95% CI 35%-54%). The pooled prevalence rates among institutionalized individuals and contact sport athletes were 30% (95% CI 23%-37%) and 18% (95% CI 5%-32%), respectively. The likelihood of horizontal transmission of HBV is greater among household contacts of chronic carriers of HBV and institutionalized individuals.

Predictors of Hepatitis B Virus Infection Vaccine Hesitancy Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care at Lubaga Hospital, Kampala, Uganda.

BackgroundWhile hepatitis B virus infection may be seen as a global threat within the medical and scientific community, primary prevention via vaccination remains the most effective approach towards breaking the chain of transmission of HBV infection. However, vaccination uptake in Uganda has been modest despite a very endemic national figure resulting from the vertical transmission of this infection. This study assessed the predictors of HBV vaccine hesitancy among pregnant women attending Antenatal clinic in Central Uganda.MethodologyA hospital-based cross-sectional study employing a five-sectioned pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire was conducted to obtain data from 385 consenting pregnant women. Responses for the antecedent variables were transformed into weighted aggregate scores using SPSS version 26. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to ascertain the predictors of HBV vaccine hesitancy with the cut-off for hypotheses set at 5% level of significance.ResultsThe majority of the respondents (59%) were between the ages of 18 and 28 years. Women with secondary educational attainment were predominant (42.3%). The respondents had mean scores of 5.97±6.61, 17.10±18.31, and 12.39±13.37, respectively, computed for knowledge of HBV infection, perception, and behavioral skills towards HBV prevention. Regarding vaccine hesitancy, three-quarters of the women (74%) hesitated to uptake HBV vaccine. While negative significant associations exist between marital status (AOR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.22–1.01), knowledge (AOR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.70–0.89), behavioral skills (AOR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.81–0.95) and vaccine hesitancy, level of education (AOR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.08–3.27) and perception (AOR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.05–1.18) on the other hand, positively predicted vaccine hesitancy.ConclusionThe findings reported an extremely high degree of HBV vaccine hesitancy among the expectant mothers discovered to be linked with marital status, educational attainment, HBV-specific knowledge, perception and behavioral skills. This necessitates targeted health education for married women with lower educational attainment to improve their knowledge which will in turn shape their perception and behavioral skills towards satisfactory uptake of HBV vaccine.

Sero-Prevalence, Infectivity, and Associated Risk Factors of Hepatitis B Virus Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care in Sankura Primary Hospital, Silte Zone, Southern Ethiopia, 2021

Background: Hepatitis B (HBV) infection causes a major public health problem around the globe. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the Seroprevalence, infectivity, and associated factors of hepatitis B virus infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Sankura Primary Hospital, Southern Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was conducted in Sankura Primary Hospital, Southern Ethiopia, from April to June 2020. A total of 338 pregnant women were recruited using systematic random sampling. Sociodemographic and associated risk factors were collected through a structured questionnaire. Blood samples and plasma analysis were performed for the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis B envelope antigen (HBeAg) using the rapid test strip method. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 20, and P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The overall Seroprevalence of HBsAg was 11 (3.3%) [95% CI 1.5% - 5.0%], of whom 2 (18.2%) were positive for HBeAg. In multivariate analysis, a history of blood transfusion [AOR=4.8 95% CI (1.25-6.69)] and contact with a family history of the liver [AOR=5.7 95% CI (1.28-7.9)] was found to be significant predictors of HBV infections. Conclusion: The Seroprevalence of HBV infection among pregnant women in the study area was intermediate. Family history of liver disease and blood transfusion were risk factors associated with HBV infection. Hence, improving the screening of blood, increasing awareness about the transmission of HBV infection, and screening pregnant women for HBV infection should be implemented. The government will build efficient service delivery models equipped with an appropriate and well-trained workforce.

Assessment of prevalence of Hepatitis B virus and its associated factors among pregnant women from Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia

ObjectiveHepatitis B virus (HBV) is a highly contagious virus. It occurs worldwide and constitutes a serious public health problem. However, studies on the prevalence of HBV infection in Ethiopia are limited. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of HBV infection and associated risk factors among pregnant women from Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia. MethodA cross-sectional study was conducted from February to May 2020 among pregnant women attending ante-natal care (ANC) at Wolaita Sodo Teaching and Referral Hospital. A total number of 252 pregnant women were included in the proposed study. Respondents were asked to complete the questionnaires and offered testing for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) detection. Chi-square and odds ratios were used to determine the association between dependent and independent variables. ResultsAmong all studied pregnant women the prevalence of HBV infection was 7.5%. Most of the studied risk factors like history of blood transfusion, multiple sexual partners, hospital admission, genital mutilation, surgical procedure, body tattooing, history of previous birth delivery were not statistically significant for HBV infection. ConclusionsRegular screening for HBV infection and vaccination against HBV targeting this population group may reduce the prevalence and mother to child transmission of HBV infection.

Enduring Challenges despite Progress in Preventing Mother-to-Child Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus in Angola.

Sub-Saharan Africa has one of the highest rates of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection globally, with an incidence of 1.5 million and 0.8 million yearly deaths, which drives synergistic efforts towards its elimination. To assess the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HBV infection, a cross-sectional study was conducted on 1012 pregnant women in Angola to investigate HBV serological and molecular profiles. The prevalence of HBV was 8.7% (n = 88), with hepatitis B core IgM antibody (anti-HBc IgM) positivity identified in 12.8%, hepatitis B “e” antigen (HBeAg) positivity in 30%, and HBV DNA ≥ 200,000 IU/mL in 28.2%. Family tracking studied 44 children, of which 11 (25%) received at least two doses of the hepatitis B vaccine. HBV was detected in 10/44 (22.7%) children, with vaccination reported in one infected child. Further testing identified anti-HBc IgM positivity in 3/10 (30%), HBeAg positivity in 55%, and both seromarkers in 20%. The results revealed the importance of antenatal HBV screening, antiviral prophylaxis for mothers with high viral loads or HBeAg positivity, and timely first-dose hepatitis B vaccines in newborns. Anti-HBc IgM positivity among pregnant women and children highlights prophylactic measures worth considering, including antenatal hepatitis B vaccination and catch-up vaccination to young children.

Prevalence and incidence rates of laboratory-confirmed hepatitis B infection in South Africa, 2015 to 2019.

BackgroundHepatitis B virus (HBV), a global public health threat, is targeted for elimination by 2030. As national HBV prevalence and incidence is lacking for South Africa, our study aimed to provide such data in the public health sector.MethodsWe analysed laboratory-confirmed HBV data from 2015 to 2019 to determine annual prevalence and incidence rates of HBV infection per 100,000 population, HBsAg and anti-HBc IgM test positivity rates, and HBsAg and anti-HBc IgM testing rates per 100,000 population. Time trend and statistical analyses were performed on HBsAg and anti-HBc IgM test positivity rates.ResultsThe national prevalence rate of HBV infection per 100,000 population increased from 56.14 in 2015 to 67.76 in 2019. Over the five years, the prevalence rate was higher in males than females, highest amongst individuals 25 to 49 years old and highest in Gauteng province. The HBsAg test positivity rate dropped from 9.77% in 2015 to 8.09% in 2019. Over the five years, the HBsAg test positivity rate was higher in males than females, amongst individuals 25 to 49 years old and amongst individuals of Limpopo province. Amongst HBsAg positive children under 5 years old, the majority (65.7%) were less than a year old. HBsAg testing rates per 100,000 population were higher in females under 45 years of age and in males 45 years and above. The national incidence rate of acute HBV infection per 100,000 population dropped from 3.17 in 2015 to 1.69 in 2019. Over the five-year period, incidence rates were similar between males and females, highest amongst individuals 20 to 39 years old and highest in Mpumalanga province. Amongst individuals 20 to 24 years old, there was a substantial decline in the incidence and anti-HBc IgM test positivity rates over time. Anti-HBc IgM testing rates per 100,000 population were higher in females under 40 years of age and in males 40 years and above.ConclusionCritical to hepatitis B elimination is strengthened infant vaccination coverage and interruption of vertical transmission. Transmission of HBV infection in adults may be reduced through heightened awareness of transmission routes and prevention measures.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection among pregnant women in Nigeria.

BackgroundNigeria has a high burden of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, commonly acquired through vertical transmission. However, there is a lack of an efficient surveillance system for monitoring and understanding the epidemiology of HBV among pregnant women. Building on a previous review on the prevalence of HBV in Nigeria (2000–2013), we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of HBV prevalence among pregnant women in Nigeria.MethodsFour electronic databases PubMed, Embase, Global Health, and Scopus were systematically searched from January 2014 to February 2021. We also searched the African Journal Online and manually scanned the reference lists of the identified studies for potentially eligible articles. Observational studies that reported the prevalence of HBsAg and/or HBeAg among pregnant women in peer-reviewed journals were included in the study. We performed a meta-analysis using a random-effects model. We defined HBV infection as a positive test to HBsAg.ResultsFrom the 158 studies identified, 20 studies with a total sample size of 26, 548 were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of HBV infection among pregnant women across the studies was 6.49% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.75–8.46%; I2 = 96.7%, p = 0.001; n = 20). The prevalence of HBV was significantly lower among pregnant women with at least secondary education compared with those with no education or primary education (prevalence ratio = 0.7, 95% CI = 0.58–0.87; n = 10). However, the prevalence of HBV was not significantly different by age, religion, marital status, or tribe. The prevalence of HBV was not significantly different among pregnant women with previous surgery, blood transfusion, multiple lifetime sex partners, tribal marks, tattoos, scarification, or sexually transmitted infections, compared with those without these risk factors. From a total sample size of 128 (n = 7), the pooled prevalence of HBeAg among HBV-infected pregnant women was 14.59% (95% CI = 4.58–27.99%; I2 = 65.5%, p = 0.01). Subgroup analyses of HBV infection by study region and screening method, and meta-regression analysis of the study year, sample size, and quality rating were not statistically significant.ConclusionsThere is an intermediate endemicity of HBV infection among pregnant women in Nigeria. Interventions, such as routine antenatal HBV screening, antiviral prophylaxis for eligible pregnant women, and infant HBV vaccination should be scaled up for the prevention of perinatal transmission of HBV infection in Nigeria.

Health status and infectious diseases in male unaccompanied immigrant minors from Africa in Spain

IntroductionThe aim was to examine the health status and infectious diseases in a cohort of unaccompanied immigrant minors (UIMs) from Africa in Spain, and to detect if there are differences according to the geographical area of origin. MethodsCross-sectional study in 622 African male UIMs at the time of admission to residential care in Aragon (Spain) during 2005-2019. A physical, nutritional and laboratory examination was performed following sanitary guidelines. ResultsThe mean age of the African UIMs was 16.1 years (SD 1.7; range 13-17). 88.9% were from Maghreb (mean age 15.9 years; SD 1.5) and 14.1% from Western Sub-Saharan (mean age 16.8 years; SD 1). We found that the prevalence of caries, iron deficiency and dermatological problems was significantly higher (p<.05) among Maghrebian, and the prevalence of past and present hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, intestinal parasitosis, eosinophilia (p<.00001) and latent tuberculosis (p=.0034) was significantly higher in those of Sub-Saharan origin. ConclusionThe most relevant finding was the high prevalence of present HBV infection (14.8%) among Sub-Saharan adolescents. This finding highlights the importance of recommending targeted screening, preventive vaccination programs, and integration into local health care systems that allow for long-term treatment and follow-up as a way to prevent the transmission of HBV infection.

Seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus among pregnant women attending Antenatal care in Dilla University Referral Hospital Gedio Zone, Ethiopia; health facility based cross-sectional study.

A pregnancy that has been complicated with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection results in typical management problems for both the mother and the newborn. One of the universal efforts in tackling the impact of chronic HBV is the prevention of mother-to-child transmission during Antenatal care via prompt screening as the majority of chronic infections globally harbored during this period. Rewarding result have been achieved in reducing this problem at this period of life through maternal screening programs and universal vaccination of infants. This study was aimed at assessing the seroprevalence and associated risk factor of HBV among pregnant women attending Antenatal Care (ANC) in Dilla University Referral Hospital (DURH), Southern Ethiopia. A facility- based cross- sectional study was conducted from December 01 to May 30, 2017 among pregnant women attending ANC. A total of 236 pregnant women were included in this study. All Pregnant women who were attending antenatal clinic and were volunteer during the study period were included, whereas those women who were unable to communicate due to any problem, and not volunteer to give informed consent were excluded. Volunteer participants were asked to complete a questionnaire and had offered to test for HBsAg infection. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 20 software. Logistic regression was used to determine the association between dependent and independent variables. From 215 pregnant women attending ANC, the prevalence of HBsAg by the rapid test was found to be 11 (5.1%). Among the study participants, 91.1% (215) were tested for HIV antibody during the ANC visit, with the positivity rate of 4.5%. The result showed 1.86% of the study participants who were tested for HIV were also positive for HBsAg. Among those factors affecting the transmission of HBV infection, multiple partners and HIV confection have significant association at P-value less than 0.05. The Seropositivity of Hepatitis B Virus among Pregnant Women was found to be significant and hence, routine screening of pregnant mother at Antenatal care for this virus, and subsequent management according to the guideline for both the mother and child is recommended.

Serological markers and risk factors associated with Hepatitis B virus infection among Federal Capital Territory prison inmates, Nigeria: Should we be concerned?

IntroductionHepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is hyper-endemic in Nigeria. Prisons are high-risk environments for the spread of infectious diseases. Worldwide, seroprevalence of HBV infection is substantially higher among individuals in correctional facilities when compared to general population. We determined the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with HBV infection among Kuje prison inmates, Nigeria.Material and methodsWe conducted a prison facility based cross-sectional study. Interviewer administered questionnaires were used to obtain information on participants socio-demographic characteristics, HBV risk factors, previous HBV test and vaccination history. Blood samples collected from participants were analysed for HBsAg, HBsAb, HBcAb, HBeAg and HBeAb markers using rapid lateral chromatographic immunoassay kit. Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analysis were performed.ResultsA total of 271 inmates (63 convicts and 208 awaiting trial inmates) were recruited into the study as participants. The mean age of the participants was 32.7 SD±9 years. HBV seroprevalence (HBsAg) of 13.7% (95% CI: 9.8–18.3) was found. 55.4% (95% CI: 49.2–61.4) of inmates were susceptible to HBV infection, 20.7% (95%CI; 16.0–26.0) had past HBV infection while 10.3% (95% CI: 7.0–14.6) had acquired natural or artificial HBV immunity. Factors found to be associated with current HBV infection (HBsAg) include age-group ≤25years (aOR = 8.0,95% CI: 2.9–22.3), being ever married (aOR = 4.2, 95% CI: 1.7–10.4) and history of alcohol consumption (aOR = 3.4, 95% CI: 1.3–8.4).ConclusionThis study reveals a high seroprevalence of HBV infection among Kuje Prison inmates, hence the need to introduce prison-focused health intervention initiatives such as HBV screening, vaccination and care to reduce the transmission of HBV infection among inmates and ultimately the general population.

Incidence and Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Hepatitis B, United States, 2013-2018.

Sexual transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is common in the United States. In 2008, an estimated 50% of HBV infections were attributed to sexual transmission. Among 21,600 acute infections that occurred in 2018, the proportion attributable to sexual transmissions is unknown. Objectives of this study were to estimate incidence and prevalence of hepatitis B attributable to sexual transmission among the US population 15 years and older for 2013 to 2018. Incidence estimates were calculated for confirmed cases submitted to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from 14 states. A hierarchical algorithm defining sexually transmitted acute HBV infections as the absence of injection drug use among persons reporting sexual risk factors was applied to determine proportion of hepatitis B infections attributable to sexual transmission nationally. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey public use data files were analyzed to calculate prevalence estimates of hepatitis B among US households and proportion attributed to sexual transmission was conservatively determined for HBV-infected non-US-born Americans who migrated from HBV endemic countries. During 2013 to 2018, an estimated 47,000 (95% confidence interval [CI], 27,000-116,000) or 38.2% of acute HBV infections in the United States were attributable to sexual transmission. During 2013 to 2018, among the US noninstitutionalized population, an estimated 817,000 (95% CI, 613,000-1,100,000) persons 15 years and older were living with hepatitis B, with an estimated 103,000 (95% CI, 89,000-118,000) infections or 12.6% attributable to sexual transmission. These findings provide evidence sexually transmitted HBV infections remain a public health problem and underscore the importance of interventions to improve vaccination among at-risk populations.

A positive attitude among primary healthcare providers predicts better hepatitis B prevention practices: evidence from a cross-sectional survey in Wakiso district, Central Uganda

ABSTRACT Background: Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection is an important occupational health risk among primary healthcare providers (PHCPs). However, there is limited evidence on whether PHCPs’ level of knowledge and attitude can predict better HBV infection prevention practices. This study established the relationship between knowledge, attitude, and HBV infection prevention practices among PHCPs in Wakiso district, Central Uganda. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used. Data were collected from 306 PHCPs, using a structured questionnaire. PHCPs were randomly selected from 55 healthcare facilities. STATA version 14.0 was used to analyse data. A ‘modified Poisson’ regression model was used for inferential statistics. Results: About 42.2% of PHCPs exhibited poor knowledge of HBV infection transmission and prevention, 41.8% had a negative attitude, and 41.5% exhibited poor prevention practices. Age (PR 1.82, 95% CI: 1.24–2.66) was positively associated with the level of knowledge. Healthcare facility level (PR 0.53, 95% CI: 0.34–0.84), main department of work (PR 0.69, 95% CI: 0.51–0.95), years in service (PR 0.66, 95% CI: 0.44–0.99), working in private not-for-profit healthcare facilities (PR 0.59, 95% CI: 0.34–0.99), and public healthcare facilities (PR 0.58, 95% CI: 0.42–0.80) were negatively associated with the level of knowledge. There was a negative association between the location of healthcare facility (PR 0.76, 95% CI: 0.62–0.93) and attitude, and a positive association between level of knowledge (PR 1.36, 95% 1.12–1.65) and attitude. Working in a public healthcare facility (PR 0.80, 95% CI: 0.64–0.99) was negatively associated with practices while having a positive attitude (PR 1.60, 95% CI: 1.28–1.99) predicted better HBV infection prevention practices. Conclusion: PHCPs who were more knowledgeable about HBV infection were more likely to have a positive attitude. In turn, having a positive attitude was associated with better HBV infection prevention practices. There is a need to sensitise PHCPs on HBV infection, and provision of screening and vaccination services in order to address the KAP gaps.

Progress towards elimination of mother-to-child transmission of hepatitisB virus infection in China: a modelling analysis.

To determine the projected burden of hepatitisB virus (HBV) in China, the intervention strategies that can eliminate mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) by 2030 or earlier and the measurable parameters that can be used to monitor progress towards this target. We developed a dynamic, sex- and age-stratified model of the HBV epidemic in China, calibrated using hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and e antigen (HBeAg) prevalence data from sequential national serosurveys (1979-2014) and the numbers of HBV-related cancer deaths (2012). We determined whether China can achieve elimination of MTCT of HBV by 2030 under current prevention interventions. We modelled various intervention scenarios to represent different coverage levels of birth-dose HBV vaccination, hepatitisB immunoglobulin to newborns of HBsAg-positive mothers and antiviral therapy (tenofovir) to HBeAg-positive pregnant women. We project that, if current levels of prevention interventions are maintained, China will achieve the elimination target by 2029. By modelling various intervention scenarios, we found that this can be brought forward to 2025 by increasing coverage of birth-dose vaccination, or to 2024 by the administration of tenofovir to HBeAg-positive pregnant women. We found that achievement of the target by 2025 would be predicted by a measurement of less than 2% MTCT in 2020. Our results highlight how high-quality national data can be combined with modelling in monitoring the elimination of MTCT of HBV. By demonstrating the impact of increased interventions on target achievement dates, we anticipate that other high-burden countries will be motivated to strengthen HBV prevention policies.