Prevalence and genotyping of hepatitis B and C viruses in patients attending hospitals in Libya

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections continue to represent a substantial public health burden due to their long-term clinical consequences, including chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and molecular genotype distribution of HBV and HCV among patients attending hospitals and diagnostic laboratories in Sabratha City, Western Libya. The study was conducted from June to December 2025. A total of 420 serum samples were obtained from adult patients undergoing routine screening for HBV and/or HCV infection. Serological testing was performed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to detect hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV antibodies. Molecular detection and genotyping were carried out using polymerase chain reaction-based methods in seropositive samples. Overall, 6.9% of the study population tested positive for viral hepatitis. HBV infection was detected in 4.0% of the participants, while HCV seropositivity was observed in 2.9%. Both infections were more frequently identified among male patients, although no significant gender differences were observed. HBV DNA was successfully genotyped in the majority of HBsAg-positive samples, with genotype D identified as the predominant genotype, followed by genotype A and mixed genotypes. Among HCV RNA-positive samples, genotype 4 was the most prevalent, followed by genotype 1, with a small proportion of mixed infections. These findings demonstrate that HBV and HCV infections remain prevalent among patients attending healthcare facilities in Western Libya, with HBV showing a higher burden than HCV. The predominance of HBV genotype D and HCV genotype 4 is consistent with regional molecular epidemiological patterns and has important implications for clinical management, treatment selection, and public health planning. Continued molecular surveillance and expanded screening strategies are essential to support national hepatitis control and elimination efforts.