Assessment of Hepatitis B Virus Infection and Immunity Status Amid Inhabitants of Wukari in Taraba State, North-East Nigeria: A Community-Based Study

Hepatitis B viral infection is one of the major global public health problems which are a hushed killers in the world. This virus infection is transmitted through body fluid with an infected individual. This study focuses on the prevalence of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, specifically examining the presence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and antibodies (HBsAb) among individuals in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria. The research which was conducted in Wukari metropolis, sampled ۱۰۰ persons of which male were ۳۵ and female were ۷۵ with age range from ۱۵ to ۴۵ years, using standard serological procedures, specifically Combo Rapid test immunochromatographic test strips. This study showed an ۱۸% prevalence of HBsAg and a ۱۵% prevalence of HBsAb, revealing a relatively low overall occurrence of active HBV infections. The results also show Sero- positive of HBsAg was more in male (۲۰%) compared to females (۱۶.۹%). In contrast, the HBsAb Sero- positive was more in female (۱۴.۷%) than in male (۱۱.۴%). In terms of age group ۲۱-۲۵ years has the highest age based HBsAg prevalence of ۴۰%. Also, gender disparities and age-based trends suggest higher susceptibility among certain demographics which is notably among males demonstrating a higher prevalence of HBsAg which is possibly influenced by behavioral factors and healthcare-seeking behaviors. However, females exhibited a higher prevalence of HBsAb, indicating potential immunity from past infection or vaccination. In conclusion, the findings of this study underscore the importance of encouraging individuals to undergo screening and ascertain their hepatitis B virus (HBV) status. This proactive approach is essential for effective management, thereby reducing the risk of developing cirrhosis and liver cancer, as well as preventing transmission to others. Therefore, for individuals who test positive for HBV, early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and vaccination are crucial preventive measures. It is imperative to emphasize the necessity of enhancing vaccination rates and healthcare assessments in Wukari to mitigate the risks associated with HBV infection effectively.

Keywords:

Hepatitis B , Infection , Persons , Seroprevalence , Surface antigen , Wukari