Hepatitis B Infection Awareness among Dental Graduate Students: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Hepatitis B virus transmission in a dental setting more commonly occurs due to inadequate/improper use of safety measures by the dentist. This particular study evaluated the hepatitis B virus infection related awareness among dental graduate students in a University Dental College, India. A validated questionnaire regarding the awareness about hepatitis infection and various infection control measures was distributed among the students of different year of study in undergraduate bachelor dental graduate program. The data extracted were tabulated and analyzed. Final year students showed an increased awareness when compared to third year students. There is need for improving the knowledge among the nonclinical students, mainly on transmission of virus through salivary contact. The overall awareness among the students is only fairly satisfying, which signifies the need for continued infection control education among the students.