Knowledge, Attitude & Practices of Hepatitis B Infection and Serum Antibody Analysis among Hepatitis B Vaccinated Healthcare Workers in Tertiary Care Hospital in North India

Abstract

Introduction: Health care workers are particularly at high risk of acquiring Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and other infections through needle stick injuries (NSI). HBV transmission can be contained through vaccination among health care workers (HCWs). However, 10-15% individuals have poor response. This study was therefore done to assess knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) and to evaluate the anti-HBs antibody titres in HBV vaccinated HCWs in tertiary care hospital. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out among 274 healthcare workers with complete HBV vaccination. Participants comprised of 171(62.4%) doctors followed by 50(18.2%) nurses and 53(19.3%) paramedical staff. Knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) was assessed through pre-designed questionnaire. Serum anti-HBs antibodies levels were analysis through quantitative ELISA. Results: Among 274 participants, 213(77.7%) HCW had three dose vaccination, while 61(22.2%) also had one booster dose. Anti HBs antibody levels were adequate (>10 IU/ml) in 243(88.7%) health care workers. Majority of 256(93.5%) respondents had satisfactory knowledge about universal precaution and needle stick injuries. 264(96.3%) of the respondents were aware of one or more modes of transmission, while only 74(27%) respondents were aware of the various outcomes of HBV infection. Nearly 137(50%) of the HCW had history of NSI once or more than once. Though, only 47(17.2%) participants knew correct measures to be followed after NSIs. Conclusion: Assessment of KAP scores was satisfactory. However, this information needs to be reinforced periodically among the health care staff. All HCWs should undergo ‘initial anti-HBs’ assay within two to three months of last dose of primary vaccination.

Keywords: Antibody, Hepatitis B, Health care worker, Needle stick, Vaccination

Cite this Article

Asfia Sultan, Naushaba Siddiqui, Fatima Khan, Mohd Salman Shah, Raman Sardana, Meher Rizvi, Haris M Khan, Bhanu Chaudhary. Knowledge, Attitude & Practices of Hepatitis B Infection and Serum Antibody Analysis among Hepatitis B Vaccinated Healthcare Workers in Tertiary Care Hospital in North India. Research & Reviews: A Journal of Immunology. 2020; 10(2): 25–30p.