scholarly journals Seroepidemiology of hepatitis A and B in the general population in Hong Kong: protocol of a cross-sectional survey using spatial sampling in a highly urbanised city

BMJ Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. e042065
Author(s):  
Chin Man Poon ◽  
Denise P Chan ◽  
Shui Shan Lee ◽  
Ngai Sze Wong
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Hong Kong ◽  
Hepatitis B ◽  
Viral Hepatitis ◽  
Hepatitis A ◽  
Hepatitis A Virus ◽  
Hepatitis B Surface Antigen ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Chinese University ◽  
Study Results

IntroductionDifferences in immunisation policies have significantly reshaped the epidemiology of hepatitis A and B in the population. Assessment of the susceptibility and transmission potential of these two types of vaccine-preventable hepatitis would enhance the capacity of public health authorities for viral hepatitis elimination. Focusing on Hong Kong, the objectives of this study comprise the determination of the population-level seroprevalence of hepatitis A and B and an examination of the risk factors for virus transmission and the population impacts of vaccinations.Methods and analysisThis is a cross-sectional household survey on hepatitis A and B. By using socially homogeneous building groups as sampling frame, eligible members of 1327 spatially selected households would be invited to complete a questionnaire and provide blood samples for serological testing (anti-hepatitis A virus, hepatitis B surface antigen, hepatitis B surface and core antibody). The main measures comprise a set of metrics on the prevalence of hepatitis A and B. Analysis would be conducted to examine the association of risk factors with the tested markers and describe the attitudes towards viral hepatitis vaccination.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval from the Joint Chinese University of Hong Kong—New Territories East Cluster Clinical Research Ethics Committee, and approval for laboratory safety from the Chinese University of Hong Kong have been obtained. The study results will be presented in scientific forums to update on the epidemiology of hepatitis A and B and inform the development of new vaccination strategies in Hong Kong.Trial registration numberNCT04371276.

Viral Hepatitis: 1985 Update

1985 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 3-11
Author(s):  
Saul Krugman
Keyword(s):  
Hepatitis B Virus ◽  
Hepatitis B ◽  
Viral Hepatitis ◽  
Hepatitis A ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Hepatitis A Virus ◽  
Fatal Outcome ◽  
Specific Marker ◽  
Hepatitis D ◽  
B Virus

During the past two decades extraordinary advances in hepatitis research have clarified the etiology and natural history of the disease. At least four types of hepatitis have been identified: A, B, D (delta), and non-A, non-B. Hepatitis A virus (HAV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis D virus (HDV) have been characterized. Serologic tests have been developed to detect the antigens and antibodies associated with these three hepatitis infections. As of the present time, the non-A, non-B viral agents have not been identified. Therefore, non-A, non-B hepatitis is diagnosed by excluding other viral causes of hepatitis, such as hepatitis A virus, hepatitis B virus, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and others. A recent report indicating that non-A, non-B hepatitis may be caused by a retrovirus, if confirmed, may provide a specific marker of this infection. The course of viral hepatitis is variable; it may be an asymptomatic, anteric infection, or it may be an acute illness characterized by fever, malaise, anorexia, nausea, abdominal pain, and jaundice. Most patients recover completely, but occasionally the infection may be complicated by chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and, occasionally, by a fulminant fatal outcome. This review will be devoted predominantly to a discussion of the diagnostic and prophylactic aspects of hepatitis A and hepatitis B viral infections.

scholarly journals HAV infection in Brazilian men who have sex with men: The importance of surveillance to avoid outbreaks

PLoS ONE ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 16 (9) ◽  
pp. e0256818
Author(s):  
Lisie Souza Castro ◽  
Grazielli Rocha de Rezende ◽  
Fernanda Rodas Pires Fernandes ◽  
Larissa Melo Bandeira ◽  
Gabriela Alves Cesar ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Sexual Behaviors ◽  
Household Income ◽  
Hepatitis A ◽  
Hepatitis A Virus ◽  
Transgender Women ◽  
Antibody Testing ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Monthly Household Income ◽  
Sex With Men

Background Hepatitis A is a fecal-oral infection caused by hepatitis A virus (HAV). Men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TW) have been reported as target groups for HAV infection. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence, risk factors, and circulating strains associated with HAV infection among MSM and TW in Central Brazil. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2011 to September 2013. Serum samples were collected from 425 individuals for anti-HAV antibody testing and HAV molecular characterization. Of them, 149 (35.1%) participants were self-identified as transgender women. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the risk factors of HAV seropositivity. Results The seroprevalence of HAV exposure was 69.7% (95% Confidence Interval: 65.3–74.0%). Serological evidence of HAV was significantly higher in participants who self-identified as transgender women (83.2%) than MSM (62.3%). Increasing age, non-white race, and lower monthly household income were independently associated with HAV exposure among MSM. Only lower monthly household income was independently associated with HAV exposure among TW. One anti-HAV IgM positive sample, from a transgender woman (0.2%), was detected and classified as subgenotype IA. Conclusions High HAV prevalence was observed, markedly among TW. Considering the risky sexual behaviors this population is exposed to, HAV vaccination and prevention programs targeting this population should be considered to prevent outbreaks and the burden of the disease.

scholarly journals Seroprevalence and Knowledge of Viral Hepatitis and HIV Among People Who Use Drugs Attending Methadone Therapy Clinic in Tanzania: A Cross-sectional Study.

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Semvua Kilonzo ◽  
Daniel W. Gunda ◽  
David C. Majinge ◽  
Hyasinta Jaka ◽  
Paulina M. Manyiri ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Hepatitis C Virus ◽  
Hepatitis C ◽  
Hepatitis B Virus ◽  
Hepatitis B ◽  
Viral Hepatitis ◽  
Hepatitis B Surface Antigen ◽  
People Who Use Drugs ◽  
Infection Rates ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
B Virus

Abstract Background: Methadone therapy clinics have been recently introduced in Tanzania, aiming at reducing risk behaviors and infection rates of viral hepatitis and HIV among people who use drugs. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence, associated factors and knowledge level of these conditions among people who use drugs attending a methadone clinic in Tanzania.Methods: We enrolled 253 People who using drugs receiving Methadone therapy. Clinical data was retrospectively collected from the medical records and face-to face interviews were conducted to determine the behavioral risk factors and respondents’ knowledge on viral hepatitis and HIV.Results: An overall seroprevalence of viral hepatitis (either hepatitis B surface antigen or anti-hepatitis C virus) was 6.3%, while that of hepatitis B virus mono infection was 3.5% and anti-hepatitis C virus mono infection was 3.5%. Seroprevalence of HIV was 12.6%. Viral hepatitis was strongly predicted by advanced age (>35 years) (p=0.02) and staying at Kirumba area (p=0.004), and HIV infection was predicted by increased age (>37 years) (p=0.04) and female sex (p<0.001). Regarding the knowledge of viral hepatitis, majority of the respondents were unaware of the transmission methods and availability of hepatitis B virus vaccines and only 17% were classified as well informed (provided ≥ 4 correct answers out of 7 questions). Good knowledge was highly predicted by higher education level of the individual (p=0.001).Conclusions: Despite the efforts to curb viral hepatitis and HIV infections through Methadone clinics, infection rates among people who use drugs are still high and the general knowledge on preventive measures is inadequate.

Hepatotropic viruses (hepatitis A, B, C, D and E) in a rural Brazilian population: prevalence, genotypes, risk factors and vaccination

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Karlla A A Caetano ◽  
Fabiana P R Bergamaschi ◽  
Megmar A S Carneiro ◽  
Raquel S Pinheiro ◽  
Lyriane A Araújo ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Hepatitis B ◽  
Viral Hepatitis ◽  
Hepatitis A ◽  
Hepatitis B Vaccination ◽  
Hcv Rna ◽  
Hepatitis D ◽  
Central Brazil ◽  
Hbv Vaccination ◽  
Viral Hepatitis A

Abstract Background People living in settlement projects represent an emergent rural population in Brazil. Data on their health is scarce and there are no data on viral hepatitis in this population. This study investigated the epidemiology of viral hepatitis A-E in residents of settlement projects in central Brazil. Methods During 2011 and 2012, 923 people living in rural settlements in central Brazil were interviewed and tested to estimate the prevalence of exposure to viral hepatitis A-E, to identify the circulating hepatitis B virus (HBV)/hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes and risk factors for HBV exposure and to evaluate adherence to the hepatitis B vaccination series. Results Overall, 85.9, 3.9, 0.4 and 17.3% of individuals showed evidence of exposure to hepatitis A virus (HAV), hepatitis E virus, HCV and HBV, respectively. Among HBV-DNA positive samples (n=8), subgenotypes A1 (n=3) and A2 (n=1) and genotype D/subgenotype D3 (n=4) were identified. Hepatitis D virus superinfection was detected in 0/16 HBsAg-positive participants. A total of 229 individuals showed serological evidence of HBV vaccination. In total, 442 settlers were eligible for vaccination, but only 150 individuals completed the vaccine series. All anti-HCV-positive samples (n=4) were also HCV-RNA positive and identified as subtype 1a. Conclusions The intermediate endemicity of HAV, the higher prevalence of HBV exposure compared with urban areas and the low compliance with HBV vaccination requires preventive measures focused on rural populations, emphasizing the need for HAV and HBV vaccination.

scholarly journals Prevalence and risk factors of hepatitis B virus transmission among children in Enugu, Nigeria

1970 ◽  
Vol 42 (3) ◽  
pp. 199-203
Author(s):  
ND Uleanya ◽  
EO Obidike
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Hepatitis B Virus ◽  
Hepatitis B ◽  
Surface Antigen ◽  
Hepatitis B Surface Antigen ◽  
Virus Transmission ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Sub Saharan Africa ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
B Virus

Background: Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection has reached pandemic proportions all over the world with areas of highest prevalence being the sub- Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia. Most deaths related to HBV are due to complications from chronic infection. Acquisition of infection at a younger age is the most important predictor of chronicity. Eradication of HBV is an important but difficult tasks facing public health. HB immunization is the single most important factor in hepatitis B control and was commenced in 2004 in Nigeria.Objectives: To determine the prevalence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) among children in the era of HB immunization, the risk factors of transmission and knowledge of mothers about their HB status.Methods: A cross sectional study carried out on one hundred and forty children aged 18 months to 15 years at the children outpatient clinic (CHOP) of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was determined using Determine Test Kits and a structured interviewer administered questionnaire administered.Results: Six were positive for HBsAg, giving a prevalence rate of 4.3%. HBsAg was least prevalent among children 1-5 years (2%). None of the children ≤ 5 years who received HB vaccination was positive for HBsAg though one child > 5 years who received the vaccine was positive. Sharing of toothbrushes among siblings was found to be a significantly associated risk factor. Only 6.4% of mothers knew their hepatitis B status.Conclusion: There is a gradual fall in the prevalence of HBsAg in our environment due to HB immunization. Sharing of toothbrushes may be a potent means of transmission of HBV infection.Keywords: HBV, Prevalence, Children, Transmission, HB immunization

scholarly journals Viral Superinfection in Previously Unrecognized Chronic Carriers of Hepatitis B Virus with Superimposed Acute Fulminant versus Nonfulminant Hepatitis

1999 ◽  
Vol 37 (1) ◽  
pp. 235-237 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chia-Ming Chu ◽  
Chau-Ting Yeh ◽  
Yun-Fan Liaw
Keyword(s):  
Hepatitis B Virus ◽  
Hepatitis B ◽  
Acute Hepatitis ◽  
Hepatitis A ◽  
Hepatitis A Virus ◽  
Hepatitis B Surface Antigen ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
B Virus ◽  
Hdv Infection

The role of viral superinfection in hepatitis B surface antigen carriers with superimposed fulminant (n = 60) versus nonfulminant (n = 90) acute hepatitis was studied. The frequency of hepatitis A virus (HAV) (0 versus 2.2%), HCV (18.3 versus 21.1%), HDV (15.0 versus 7.8%), and HEV (1.7 versus 4.4%) infection showed no significant difference, while simultaneous HCV and HDV infection was significantly more prevalent in the former (8.3 versus 0%). Only 3.6% of fulminant cases and 3.3% of nonfulminant controls were HGV RNA positive.

Immunofluorescence studies for hepatitis A virus and hepatitis B surface and core antigen in liver biopsies from patients with acute viral hepatitis

1979 ◽  
Vol 77 (4) ◽  
pp. 623-628 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lars R. Mathiesen ◽  
Lis Fauerholdt ◽  
Anne Marie Møller ◽  
Jan Aldershvile ◽  
Odd Dietrichson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Hepatitis B ◽  
Viral Hepatitis ◽  
Hepatitis A ◽  
Acute Viral Hepatitis ◽  
Hepatitis A Virus ◽  
Core Antigen ◽  
Immunofluorescence Studies ◽  
Liver Biopsies

scholarly journals Seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus infection, anti-HCV antibodies and HIV and knowledge among people who use drugs attending methadone therapy clinic in Tanzania; a cross-sectional study

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Semvua B. Kilonzo ◽  
Daniel W. Gunda ◽  
David C. Majinge ◽  
Hyasinta Jaka ◽  
Paulina M. Manyiri ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Hepatitis C ◽  
Hepatitis B Virus ◽  
Hepatitis B ◽  
Viral Hepatitis ◽  
Hepatitis B Surface Antigen ◽  
People Who Use Drugs ◽  
Behavioral Risk ◽  
Infection Rates ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
B Virus

Abstract Background Methadone therapy clinics have been recently introduced in Tanzania, aiming at reducing risk behaviors and infection rates of viral hepatitis and HIV among people who use drugs. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence, associated factors and knowledge level of these conditions among people who use drugs attending a methadone clinic in Tanzania. Methods We enrolled 253 People who using drugs receiving Methadone therapy. Clinical data was retrospectively collected from the medical records and face-to face interviews were conducted to determine the behavioral risk factors and respondents’ knowledge on viral hepatitis and HIV. Results An overall seroprevalence of viral hepatitis (either hepatitis B surface antigen or anti-hepatitis C virus) was 6.3%, while that of hepatitis B virus mono infection was 3.5% and anti-hepatitis C antibodies was 3.5%. Seroprevalence of HIV was 12.6%. Viral hepatitis was strongly predicted by advanced age (> 35 years) (p = 0.02) and staying at Kirumba area (p = 0.004), and HIV infection was predicted by increased age (> 37 years) (p = 0.04) and female sex (p < 0.001). Regarding the knowledge of viral hepatitis, majority of the respondents were unaware of the transmission methods and availability of hepatitis B virus vaccines and only 17% were classified as well informed (provided ≥4 correct answers out of 7 questions). Good knowledge was highly predicted by higher education level of the individual (p = 0.001). Conclusions Despite the efforts to curb viral hepatitis and HIV infections through Methadone clinics, infection rates among people who use drugs are still high and the general knowledge on preventive measures is inadequate.

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