Prevalence of hepatitis B, hepatitis C and human immunodeficiency viruses, and evaluation of risk factors for transmission: Report of a population screening in Nigeria

Abstract

Background. Hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV are common blood-borne infections unevenly distributed across regions in Nigeria. Few population-based prevalence studies have been done in Nigeria. Objective. To determine the prevalence of HBV, HCV and HIV and risk factors for infection with these viruses in a Nigerian population. Methods. Hepatitis B surface antigen, anti-HCV and HIV were assayed in 1 498 healthy adult participants. A structured questionnaire was used to assess risk factors for viral acquisition. Bivariate analysis was used to compare differences in sociodemographic characteristics. Significant risk factors were identified by stepwise logistic regression. A p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results. The prevalences of HBV, HCV and HIV were 8.8%, 10.0% and 12.9%, respectively, with urban/rural disparity. HBV/HCV positivity was higher among males than females. The reverse was true for HIV. Age was significantly associated with being HBV-, HCV-or HIVpositive. Communal use of a toothbrush was significantly associated with HBV positivity in the final model (odds ratio 2.46, 95% confidence interval 1.45 -4.18). Conclusions. The prevalence of HBV, HCV and HIV infection is high in Nigeria, with urban/rural disparity. HCV may be more of a public health concern than HBV in some communities. Population-based studies are required to provide vital data to inform optimal national control strategies.

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“…This differed with the findings in Calabar, Nigeria where a higher prevalence of 8.8% was found. Okonkwo, et al [26] this could be to the difference in the methodology of target population. The latter was conducted among populations with exposure history to risk factors to hepatitis virus.…”

Contaminated Toothbrushes and Potential COVID-19 Transmission: Concerns and Recommendations

“…[5][6][7] In the past, considerable evidence has demonstrated microbial contamination of toothbrushes and possible transmission of viral diseases to users. [8][9][10][11] Like other microorganisms, SARS-CoV-2 has been detected in the oral mucosa, 12,13 and saliva samples turn the oral cavity into an important route of transmission and potential reservoir of the virus. [13][14][15][16] Since toothbrushes are in intimate contact with the oral cavity, the question arises as to whether they can transmit COVID-19.…”

Application of Categorical Data-nested Design of Knowledge & Control Practices of HBV Infection

“…With a population of 170 million, this relates to approximately twenty-three million of its general populace living with HBV. HBV together with HIV are responsible for 20% mortality in Nigeria [16]. The incidence of HBV infection can be reduced by giving proper education and awareness regarding its transmission and vaccination to young people.…”