Hepatitis B Virus Vaccination Status of Laboratory Workers in Nigerian Hospitals

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of Hepatitis B virus vaccine uptake among medical laboratory workers (Scientists, technicians and phlebotomists) practicing in hospitals in Warri, Delta state, Nigeria. This was a cross-sectional descriptive study. Informed consent was received from subjects before inclusion in the study. Data for this study were collected with the aid of a well structured self administered questionnaire. 250 questionnaires were distributed by random sampling to study participants. Data collected included biodata, HBV sero status, HBV vaccination status, Vaccination policy and potential hindrances to uptake of HBV vaccine. 213 respondents returned their questionnaires giving a Participation rate of 85.2%. HBV vaccination rate was 35 (16.4%) out of 213 who consented for the study. 178 (83.6%) subjects were unvaccinated in the period of the study. Though males were more commonly vaccinated than females (18 (51.4%) vs. 17 (48.6%), but this was not significantly different. Of the 35 subjects that reported complete vaccination, 24 (68.6%) worked in private hospitals while 11 (31.4%) worked for government owned tertiary hospitals (P<0.001). Fifteen (8.4%) and Seven (3.9%) discontinued vaccination at 1^st and 2^nd doses. lack of time and opportunity 113 (53.1%) were the most common potential barriers to uptake of HBV vaccine among the subjects studied. HBV vaccination status was low among laboratory workers studied; there is need for an urgent introduction of enlightenment programmes and training on the usefulness of HBV vaccination among this group of health care providers.

Keywords: Hepatitis B virus, Hepatitis B virus vaccine, Medical laboratory workers, Vaccination status