Prevalence of Hepatitis Viruses in Hospitalized Patients in Thi-Qar Province

Ahmad Shandookh  Hameed

Ahmad Shandookh Hameed Medical Technique Department, Al-Nasiriyah Technical Institute, Southern Technical University, Basrah, Iraq

Keywords: hepatitis, prevalence of hepatitis, HBV, HCV

Abstract

Globally, hepatitis is a major public health concern because it causes high rates of morbidity and mortality. Understanding the prevalence of hepatitis among hospitalized patients is crucial for effective healthcare planning and resource allocation. This study aims to investigate the frequency of hepatitis caused by HBV and HCV in hospitalized patients, the risk factors causing it, and the significance of putting preventative measures in place to stop its spread within healthcare facilities. 400 individuals who received care at Al Nasseryiah general hospital between October 2022 and February 2023 were all screened. To ensure that the specimens were randomly chosen, blood samples were periodically taken from various hospital medical wards. The serum samples were then frozen until it was time for the ELISA method examination after being centrifuged to retrieve the serum. All samples were examined for the detection of the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCVin accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Of the total 400 patients screened 17 (4.25%) patients were positive for HBV and only 5 (1.25%) patients were positive for HCV. The ratio of Female and Male was 1: 2. The majority of the positive results were belonging to patients undergoing dialysis 12 (3%), followed by ICU 3 (0.75%) and lastly ER reported only 2 (0.5%) positive results. Also, the results of the screening revealed a strong positive association between the duration of dialysis and the risks of contracting hepatitis infection. Also, the most effected age group was between 25 to 45 years of age. This study offers significant new information regarding the incidence of hepatitis among hospitalized patients. The results underline the need for focused screening, prevention, and treatment efforts as well as the continuous burden of hepatitis B and C in this community. These findings could help clinicians and healthcare officials apply the best strategies to lessen the effects of hepatitis on hospitalized patients and enhance general health outcomes. To track future changes in the prevalence of hepatitis and its related risk factors, additional study and surveillance are necessary.

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