Hepatitis B and C viruses seroprevalence and risk factors among health care workers (HCWs) in referral hospitals in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo.

INTRODUCTION

Hepatitis B and C viruses cause chronic infections leading to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of hepatitis B and C viruses and the potential risk factors which might influence the prevalence among health care workers (HCWs) in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study from June to November 2022 among HCWs from the Talangaï and Makélékélé referral hospitals, Brazzaville. 107 HCWs were included and serological screening was carried out using rapid screening tests followed by the ELISA technique, after completing a survey questionnaire.

RESULTS

The mean age was 36.56 ± 11.62 years with a female predominance of 1 : 0.36 sex ratio, laboratory technicians were the most represented socio-professional category. Seroprevalence of HBV was 7.48% and that of HCV was 3.74%. During their service, 40% have already been the victims of blood exposure accidents and have 7 times more risk of contracting HBV (odd ratio [OR] = 7.01 (95% Confidence interval [CI] 1.54-31.96); p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

These data show that hepatitis B and C viruses are still endemic among HCWs in Republic of Congo. We can conclude that the health care sector is a high-risk profession due to infection with hepatitis B and C viruses. It is therefore necessary to improve the health and safety conditions of HCWs, implement new strategies to reduce occupational exposure to blood and body fluids, and reduce viral contamination by hepatitis B and C.