Hepatitis B Vaccination Coverage and Factors Associated with Vaccine Uptake Among Dental Healthcare Workers in Shimonoseki, Japan

Background/Objectives: Dental healthcare workers (DHWs) are at high risk of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection due to occupational exposure. Although hepatitis B (HB) vaccination is recommended in Japan, vaccination coverage and factors associated with vaccine uptake remain unclear. This study aimed to clarify HB vaccination coverage, identify factors associated with vaccine uptake, and explore reasons for non-vaccination among DHWs in Shimonoseki, Japan. Methods: A cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted among 470 DHWs affiliated with the Shimonoseki Dental Association. Data on demographics, HBV/hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing, needlestick injuries, vaccination status, and reasons for non-vaccination were collected. Exploratory unadjusted group differences were analyzed using Chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests. Results: Of the 470 DHWs invited, 66 participated (response rate, 14.0%). Among respondents, 50.0% had a history of HB vaccination; however, only 22.7% had completed the three-dose series. Completion was significantly lower among dental staff than dentists (6.3% vs. 38.2%; p = 0.0025). Vaccination was associated with HBV-related education (p < 0.001), HBV/HCV testing history (HBV p < 0.001; HCV p < 0.001), and institutional policies (p = 0.0363), but not with needlestick injuries. Among the 27 unvaccinated respondents, the most frequently reported reason for non-vaccination was lack of personal recommendation. Conclusions: Among respondents, self-reported three-dose HB vaccination completion was low, particularly among dental staff. Vaccination status was associated with educational exposure, previous HBV/HCV testing, and reported workplace vaccination policies, whereas no association with self-reported needlestick injury history was observed.