Hepatitis C Infection among Health Care Workers Screened by OraQuick Test in Asyut Governorate

Abstract

Background: Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at greater risk for infection by blood-borne pathogens, such as hepatitis B and C and human immunodeficiency viruses. Occupational exposure to needle stick injuries (NSIs) and blood and other body fluids (BBF) remained the main health problem in developing countries. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in HCWs in Asyut Governorate and treatment outcomes among true positive cases. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among HCWs at the central office of Asyut Health Directorate, Abu-teeg, Al-Qusiyah, and Abnoub district hospitals. This study was done before national HCV screening initiative in Egypt. The study sites were randomly recruited from all eligible sites. Data were collected using a semi structured questionnaire. The questionnaire included inquiries about sociodemographic status and risk factors for HCV transmission, such as exposure to NSIs and BBF. Results: The prevalence of hepatitis C infection among HCWs in Asyut Governorate was 6.3% by polymerase chain reaction test. The important risk factors for HCV positivity included exposure to NSIs and BBFs. Conclusion : The HCV infection prevalence among HCWs is high, and significant predictors of HCV infection among HCWs include exposure to NSIs and BBFs and absence of training regarding infection control measures. Therefore, health education and training programs are regularly recommended for all HCWs regarding occupational exposure to NSIs and BBFs.