HIV-HBV Coinfection among Individuals Attending the ICTC of a Tertiary Care Hospital in West Bengal, India

Abstract

Background. Hepatitis B and HIV infections are serious global public health problems. Many of the countries with high HIV burden are also affected by high prevalence of hepatitis B infection, leading to frequent HIV/HBV coinfection. Seroprevalence study is important to assess the magnitude and dynamics of disease transmission and to decide the prevention and control strategy. There is limited data of seroprevalence of HIV/HBV co-infection in West-Bengal, India. Objective. To determine the seroprevalence of HBsAg (hepatitis B surface antigen) positivity among HIV infected individuals attending an integrated counselling and testing centre (ICTC) attached to a tertiary care hospital in eastern India. Materials and Methods. Serum samples collected over a period of 6 months from subjects attending the ICTC were screened for anti-HIV antibodies by using rapid card tests as per the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) protocol. Serum samples found to be reactive for HIV antibodies were tested for HBsAg by rapid card test. Results. The seroprevalence of anti-HIV antibody was 17.3%. Among these samples 8.3% were positive for HBsAg. Conclusion. A high prevalence of HIV/HBV co-infection among individuals attending the ICTC in this centre is a cause for concern and warrants urgent intervention.