International Journal of Virology and Parasitology, Vol. 10 (5), pp. 001-005, May, 2021. © International Scholars Journals
Full Length Research Paper
Sero-Prevalence of HBs Ag and HCV Antigenaemia among Pregnant Women in Owo, South-West, Nigeria
Daniels, A.O, Ogundeyi, S.B and Owanikin, S.R
Department of Biological Sciences, Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State, P.M.B 1030, Idasen, Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria.
Accepted 24 May, 2020
Abstract
The study is aimed at determining the prevalence of HBsAg and HCV antigenaemia among pregnant women in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. One hundred (100) blood donors volunteered attendees of the General Hospital, Owo, Ondo State, South Western Nigeria were recruited for this study. Samples of blood were collected, stored and processed using standard laboratory procedures. Additional information was obtained using a structured questionnaire specially designed for this purpose. All Subjects were screened for HBsAg and HCV using a rapid chromatographic immunoassay method. The results showed that the age of subjects ranged from 15 to 40 years (mean age = 21. 4 years). A total of 4(3.0%) subjects were positive for HBsAg and 1.0% for HCV – anti body. From this study, the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus(HCV) infection among the sample population is 4.0% . The present study also shows that the hepatitis virus was more prevalent among subjects within the age range of 15 – 40 years. The Study has revealed the presence of HBsAg in Sexually active group (Ages 15 to 40 years of age) among pregnant women in Owo, South West Nigeria, thus supporting the role of sexual transmission of the virus. The 3.0% infection rate of HbsAg can be considered as moderate thus emphasizing the importance of routine screening of blood for these viruses in order to prevent prenatal transmission.
Keywords: Blood, HBsAg, HCV, Nigeria.