Hepatitis B in Healthcare Personnel: An Update on the Global Landscape

Abstract

Despite the outstanding progress that has been made in the prevention, detection, and management of hepatitis B during the past decades, hepatitis B remains a problem among healthcare personnel (HCP) in many countries. We reviewed studies on all aspects of hepatitis B in HCP published from 2017 through April 2023. They revealed wide variations on the prevalence of infection among HCP, ranging from 0.6% in Europe to >8.7% in Africa, almost always in association with very low vaccination rates. Many studies found a significant association between HCP’s knowledge about hepatitis B and hepatitis B vaccines, their vaccination status, and practices. This research also discloses global inequities regarding vaccination policies against hepatitis B, free-of-charge vaccinations, and access to post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Strategies to prevent and manage accidental exposures are needed in order to reduce the burden of hepatitis B on HCP, while written policies for all aspects of infection prevention, protective equipment, and PEP should be available. Lastly, HCP should be accordingly educated. These are all imperative given the decline of routine vaccinations in the COVID-19 era, particularly in countries with fragile vaccination programs, and the disruptions of interventions for hepatitis B that are expected to provide a pool of virus transmission to future generations.

Entecavir induced gynecomastia- Triggering factor or coincidence?

“…It is very important to diagnose this viral infection on time, to include the patient in the follow-up protocol, to determine the severity of the disease and then to plan the optimal treatment steps. [1][2][3][4] Entecavir is an important nucleoside analogue that plays a pivotal role in the treatment of HBV. 5 In this case report, it was aimed to present a case report regarding bilateral gynecomastia and mastodonia while receiving entecavir treatment.…”