The Environmental Health Risk Analysis regarding Hepatitis A Transmission among Street Food Vendor in Indonesia

Abstract

This study aimed to conduct hazard identification and risk assessment for the transmission of hepatitis A among street food vendors (SFVs), whereas risk management was generated. This observational analytic study was conducted in Jember Regency - Indonesia. Cluster random sampling was employed, wherein five distinct locus were selected representing SFVs in campus area and local market area. A total of 100 SFVs in Jember participated in this study. Data was collected using a questionnaire. The risk assessment was measured by multiplying the likelihood and consequence. Additionally, the data was subjected to descriptive analysis. This study found the identification of hazards among SFVs was found inadequate sanitation facilities, poor food processing practice (improper handling of raw ,- cooked ingredients, and poor food serving), limited availability of clean water,substandard building and layout were observed as potential hazards for the transmission of hepatitis A. The risk assessment found inadequate sanitation facilities (18 point), negative attitude (18 point), poor quality assurance (16 point), and food contamination (14 point) have high scores. The risk management including: a) location and building: providing specific location, and maintaining cleanliness of the furniture and equipment on a regular basis, b) sanitation facility: provision of sanitary waste bin, communal toilet and wastewater drainage system; fly control measures, and using piped water supply, c) food processing: increasing food handler personal hygiene, and standard food handling process.In conclusion, the risk of Hepatitis A transmission among street vendors remains high and poses a threat in Jember, indicating the need for health education for the street vendors. Additionally, the author recommends policymakers to implement regular monitoring or inspection of the food quality and the necessity of providing clean water facilities or other fundamental facilities to SFVs.