Abstract
BACKGROUND: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is preventable through vaccination. However, healthcare workers (HCWs) are at increased risk of HBV transmission due to occupational exposure. AIMS: This study investigates the prevalence of HBV markers of exposure and infection, HBV genotypes, and immunity among HCWs at Yaoundé General Hospital. METHODS: We conducted a prospective, cross-sectional study based on self-administered questionnaires and blood samples collected from HCWs. HBV markers (HBsAg, anti-HBs, anti-HBc) and genotypes were analyzed using ELISA MONOLISA kits and hemi-nested amplification and sequencing focusing on the HBV S region. RESULTS: Among 173 HCWs, 46.8% (81/173) were exposed (positive for anti-HBc), 14.8% (12/81) of exposed participants were infected (HBsAg). A 9.8% (17/173) were naturally immunized (positive for anti-HBc and anti-HBs) and 60.7% (105/173) had acquired immunity (anti-HBs only). Phylogenetic analysis revealed the prevalence of only HBV genotype E. Exposure to HBV and current infection was significantly associated with age group, with a significant p < 0.05 (p = 0.0032) predominance in the 20-29 age group 60.1% (104/173) and 32.9% (57/173), respectively. Notably, low vaccine response was closely associated with function, with nurses being at higher risk (OR = 8.52; 95% CI: 3.250-10.567), whereas high vaccine immunity was observed in those who had received all 3 doses of HBV vaccine (OR = 15.861; 95% CI: 0.971-45.591). CONCLUSION: This study revealed a significant burden of HBV infection among HCWs in Yaounde General Hospital, Cameroon. Our results highlight the ongoing risk of HBV transmission among HCWs and emphasize the importance of an active, multi-faced approach, including vaccination programs, precautionary measures, and additional strategies, to effectively contain HBV exposure among HCWs in Cameroon.