Seroprevalence, Risk Factors and Immunological Response against Hepatitis B Virus Among Students of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Nigeria

Abstract

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is of major public health interest as it accounts for significant mortality globally. The study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of HBV infection, the possible potential risk factors, and the immunological response among students of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, from December 2022 to April 2023. Structured questionnaires were used to collect sociodemographic information as well as possible risk factors related to the infection. Out of 139 study participants (10 females and 129 males) screened randomly for HBsAg using a rapid HBsAg test kit, 17 (12.2%) were seropositive, and 122 (87.8%) were seronegative. The sera of the positive participants were further screened for HBeAg and anti-(HBs, HBe, and HBc) using one-step cassette diagnostic kits. Of the 17 positive samples screened, none were reactive for anti-HBs antibodies and HBeAg, while 15 were positive for anti-HBc and anti-HBe, indicating a response to natural infection. Sexual activity, unprotected sexual practices, use of already used sharp objects, and awareness of HBV infection were significantly associated (P<0.05) with the viral infection. The study indicates high endemicity in the study area. It is recommended that Nigerian universities mandate the Hepatitis B virus vaccine for newly admitted students. More awareness should be created about the dangers of unprotected sexual practices, use or sharing of used sharp objects, among other possible factors.