PREVALENCE OF HEPATITIS B VIRUS INFECTION AMONG HEALTH CARE WORKERS IN TAMALE TEACHING HOSPITAL

ABSTRACT

Background: Health Care Workers are at higher risk of Hepatitis B Virus infection which according to WHO has thrice the risk of the general population. This study was conducted with the aim of establishing the prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus infection among Health Care Workers in Tamale Teaching Hospital. The objectives of the study were; determine Hepatitis B serological test status among Health Care Workers, determine the level of awareness of Hepatitis B Virus infection among HCWs and to identify control measures of HBV infection in Tamale Teaching Hospital.

Methods: The study was an analytical cross-sectional study. A total of 510 participants, consisting of 255 HCWs and 255 comparison group were recruited for this study. Blood samples were taken from all the 510 participants by a phlebotomist and micropoint HBsAg Gold Rapid test kits were used to test for Hepatitis B Virus. Outpatient department (OPD) patients were selected as comparison group (general population) to compare with Healthcare workers. The study also utilized pre-tested, structured and self-administered questionnaires.

Results: The study findings showed the prevalence of HBV infection among Healthcare workers was 26.3% and 14.5% for the comparison group. The study revealed that category of staff does not have an association with prevalence of HBV infection. However, the findings showed significance association between prevalence of HBV infection and participants educational status. The level of awareness of HBV was higher in the Health care workers than the comparison group. The results showed low usage of retractable syringe and needle as a control measure.

Conclusion: The study showed there was high prevalence of HBV infection among HCWs in Tamale Teaching Hospital, compared to the comparison group. Even though the level of awareness was found to be high among respondents, the control measures in place were not adequate. The study recommended that the Hospital emphasized on control measures such as use of retractable syringe and needles, and adherence to the universal vaccination policy.