TITLE:
Prevalence of HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C in Rivers State University, Port Harcourt: Outcome of a Medical Outreach
AUTHORS:
Ibioku Elekima, Moore Ikechi Mike-Ogburia, Chinyere Omereji-David, Beatrice Wobiarueri Moore-Igwe, Easter Godwin Nwokah, Ibitoroko Maureen George-Opuda, Nkemkanma Vivian Agi, Tombari Pius Monsi, Ollor Amba Ollor, Ozioma Chiagoziem Okoro, Ngozi Brisibe, Adline Erinma Ben-Chioma
KEYWORDS:
HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Medical Outreach
JOURNAL NAME:
Advances in Infectious Diseases,
Vol.13 No.4,
December
29,
2023
ABSTRACT: Background: Infectious diseases associated with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) continue to pose significant public health challenges that necessitate continuous surveillance and interventions. This study investigates the prevalence of HIV, HBV and HCV infections within the academic community of Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Given the potential for transmission in university settings and the importance of early detection and intervention, this research explores the extent of these infections and evaluates the outcomes of a medical outreach program aimed at addressing them. Methodology: A cross-sectional study design was employed to recruit 513 participants using a convenience sampling approach between the 20th and 22nd of April 2022. Participants included students and staff members who voluntarily consented to the medical outreach and study. Serological assays were utilized to identify HIV, HBV and HCV infections. The medical outreach program’s design, implementation, and outcomes were evaluated, focusing on testing uptake, counselling utilization, and linkage to care. Statistical analysis employed GraphPad Prism version 9 software. Result: The study revealed low prevalence rates of HIV (0.6%), HBV (1.2%), and HCV (0.6%) infections within the university population. Age-based analysis indicated a slightly higher prevalence in the 15 - 24 age group. Gender-wise, HBV showed a marginal difference, with 1.3% among females and 0.9% among males. The medical outreach program achieved a testing uptake of 80.8%, with 75% utilizing counselling services, and 75% of those identified with infections successfully linked to care. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the prevalence of infections and the effectiveness of a medical outreach program within a university community. While low prevalence rates are encouraging, the findings emphasize the continued importance of awareness and prevention efforts. The success of the outreach program in encouraging testing, providing counselling, and facilitating care linkage underscores its potential as a model for future interventions. Further research should delve into determinants of infection prevalence and barriers to care linkage for a more comprehensive understanding and improved intervention strategies.