Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Infection among out Patients Attending a Public Tertiary Hospital in Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract

A survey was conducted amongst 100 randomly selected out-patients attending a Public tertiary Hospital in Kaduna State, Nigeria, in order to ascertain the prevalence of Hepatitis B infection and the general knowledge of people about this highly infectious disease. Sera collected were tested for the presence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) using Wondfo Diagnostic rapid test Kit (China). Questionnaires were also distributed to the subjects in order to ascertain their perception about the disease, and to obtain useful socio demographic information. Chi square test was used to ascertain statistical associations between important characteristics in the study population. A total of 12 out of hundred patients tested positive to HBsAg, giving a prevalence of 12%. There was significant association (p˂0.01) between seropositivity/blood donation, and also between seropositivity/hepatitis B immunization (p˂0.05). There was generally a poor knowledge about HBV infection in the study population.