Correlates of Hepatitis B And C Viral Infections Among Pregnant Women in Obio Cottage Hospital in Rivers State, Nigeria

Globally, vertical transmission of hepatitis B and C viruses causes fetal effects on the neonate, leading to impaired mental and physical health later in life. It leads to an increase in mortality, morbidity, economic wastage, and other health complications. The study aims to identify the correlates of hepatitis B and C virus among pregnant women receiving antenatal care. These include the determination of the seroprevalence of hepatitis B and C viruses,knowledge, and attitude regarding HBV and HCV infections. A descriptive survey design was used and the research was conducted at Obio Cottage Hospital in Obio-Akpor LGA of Rivers State, Nigeria between 1st February 2022 and 30th July 2022. Qualified medical laboratory personnel collected venous blood samples from participants and processed them for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-Hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies using ELISA kits. Descriptive and inferential analyses, utilizing SPSS v.27, Excel, and GraphPad Prism, were conducted on the data collected. There were low seroprevalence rates of hepatitis B (1.41%) and C (0.31%); low level of knowledge (49.76%±14.207%) and positive attitude (45.76%±9.71%) towards hepatitis B and C, Significant inverse relationships were noted between attitude and prevalence of both viruses (p=0.0407 for hepatitis B, p=0.0489 for hepatitis C). Increased knowledge and positive attitude were significantly associated with lower prevalence rates (p<0.0001, OR=99.000 for hepatitis B, OR=84.333 for hepatitis C). There was a low seroprevalence among the respondents with a low level of knowledge but a positive attitude towards Hepatitis B and C. Enhanced Screening Programs, Antenatal Counseling, and Integration of Services are recommended.