Serosurvey for HIV, Hepatitis B, and C Viruses Among Apparently Healthy Students of Federal Polytechnic Idah and its Environs

Abstract

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) remain a significant public health concern globally. However, there is a dearth of information about the prevalence of the three viruses in the study area. Therefore, the current study determined the prevalence of HBV, HCV, and HIV among students of a tertiary institution and its environs in Idah, Kogi State, Nigeria. Sera obtained from 1000 consented individuals were screened for HBsAg, anti-HCV, and HIV antibodies using commercial immunoassay test kits. Relevant demographic information was obtained from each participant with a structured questionnaire. Of the 1000 participants, HBV, HCV, and HIV were detected in 28 (2.8%), 2 (0.2%) and 3 (0.3%), respectively. However, no participant was simultaneously infected with any two or three viruses. The age group 21-40 years demonstrated greater exposure to HBV (7.57%), HCV (0.37%), and HIV (1.17%) infection than the others. More male than female participants had HBV (3.3% vs. 2.4%). On the contrary, both genders were equally infected with HCV (0.2% vs. 0.2%), while more of the females had HIV (0.6% Vs. 0.0%). Nevertheless, neither gender nor age of exposure significantly influenced any of the three viral infections. Being single significantly influenced HCV (P=0.02) and HIV (P=0.001) while levels of education significantly predict HBsAg seropositivity (P=0.02). Generally, not knowing about viral infection prevention was associated with a high prevalence of HBV, HCV, and HIV. In conclusion, the study observed a low prevalence of HBV, HCV, and HIV when compared with most reported studies elsewhere. However, the occurrence of more viral infections in association with a lack of knowledge of infection suggests the need to strengthen awareness programs on infection and control strategies in the area.