Abstract

Background: The Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) are major health problems that account for a significant percentage of liver diseases worldwide and a significant public health concern. Aim: This study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and C surface antigens among students at tertiary and secondary schools in Jos, Nigeria. Methodology: The surface antigens of HBV and HCV were detected in 226 samples of blood using a rapid strip detection assay. Results: Among the 226 blood samples analyzed (113 students from each school) for Hepatitis B surface antigen and Hepatitis C antibody using a one-step Hepatitis strip, 8(3.5%) showed positive results for Hepatitis B surface antigen, among the age groups 10-20 years old, 1.6% prevalence, 21-30 years old, 6.8% prevalence, 31-40 years old, 0.02% and 41-50 years old, 0.0% prevalence, with the male subject recording a higher prevalence rate of 6.3% than the female subject with a prevalence rate of 0.9%, was significant. Based on the results of this study, the prevalence rate for HBV was 3.5%, while there was no record of HCV or dual infection between HBV and HCV among the students. The prevalence of HBV was higher among students from the tertiary institution compared to those from the secondary school. Conclusion: Educating students about the importance of Hepatitis B vaccination in preventing chronic infection with Hepatitis B and C viruses, as well as regular HCV testing for early detection and management, is imperative.

Keywords: Seroprevalence, HBV, HCV, Infection, Vaccine