Seroprevalence and risk factors of hepatitis B virus infection among health care workers at the Institute of Neurology
Chiarakul, S.; Eunumjitkul, K.; Vuttiopas, S.; Vorapimol, A-Reerut.; Kaewkungwal, J.; Poovorawan, Y.
Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand 90(8): 1536-1545
2007
ISSN/ISBN: 0125-2208 PMID: 17926982 Document Number: 3068
Objectives: To define the seroepidemiology of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection among health care workers (HCWs) in the institute of Neurology, and to evaluate the risk factors of HB V markers.Material and Method: Blood samples were taken from 548 HCWs for HB V profiling (HBsAg, anti-HBs and anti-HBc) by Microparticle Enzyme Immunoassay (MEIA) methods. Questionnaires of demographics, type, and duration of work history of blood exposure, HBV vaccination, and non-occupational risks of HBV infection were interviewed.Results: Twenty-nine (5.3%) HCWs were HBsAg positive, 135 (24.6 %) had anti-HBc with anti-HBs suggesting immunity acquired from a previous HBV infection, 232 (42.3%) had totally negative profiles, 40 (7.3 %) had anti-HBc only, 105 (19.2%) had protective levels of anti-HBs, 7 (1.3%) had low anti-HBs levels. The significant risk factors included not having received the hepatitis B vaccine, male gender past history Of jaundice, viral hepatitis, family history of hepatoma, spouse with hepatitis B, and duration of employment in a clinical environment exceeding 5 years. No significant differences were found among HCWs regarding frequency of exposure to blood products.Conclusion:Base on the significant risk factors of hepatitis B virus infection among HCWs, these findings will help implement effective measures aimed at preventing HB V infection.
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