Knowledge and vaccination status for hepatitis B infection among health workers in Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Health workers are at increased risk for Hepatitis B virus (HBV). Although vaccination provides protection against this virus, there is inadequate information on health workers' knowledge, and status of vaccination. Objective: To investigate knowledge and utilization of Hepatitis B vaccination among health workers in Ibadan, Nigeria. Methodology: A total of 384 health care workers in secondary health facilities in Ibadan North and South West Local Government Areas of Oyo State Nigeria were surveyed. Data were collected using a 46-itcm validated self-administered, semi-structured questionnaire that assessed knowledge, practice and uptake of HBV vaccination. A 12-point scale was developed to assess knowledge; 0-4= poor knowledge, 5-8 =fair knowledge, 9-12= good knowledge. An 11 - point practice scale was used; 0- 5 as unhealthy practice and 6-11 a s healthy vaccination practice. Results: The majority (76.3%) of the respondents had a good knowledge on Hepatitis B mode of transmission. Also, 71.4% of the health workers had unhealthy practices with risk of HB viral infection. There was a low uptake of HBV vaccine as only 119 (33%) health workers have been completely vaccinated. A significant difference exits between cadre of health worker and HB vaccine use from regression analysis p=0.03. Conclusion: The finding of this study highlights the importance of Hepatitis B vaccination of HCWs in Ibadan, Nigeria where high exposure rates arc combined with low levels of vaccine coverage and uptake. There is a need for reorientation of health workers coupled with subsidized Hepatitis B vaccination to HCW who are at high risk to address this gap.