Epidemiology Of Hepatitis B Infection Among Pregnant Women in Minna, Nigeria
Authors
Ndams I. S.
Department of Biological Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
Joshua I. A.
University Health Services, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
Luka S. A.
Department of Biological Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
Sadiq H. O.
Department of Biological Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
Abstract
A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted amongst 261 pregnant women attending ante natal clinic at General hospital, Minna, Nigeria to determine the social characteristics and seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV). The mean age of the respondents was 25years. Thirty two (12.3%) of the 261 blood samples tested positive for HBV. Of the the +ve cases, 13.6% were in the second trimester of their pregnancy and 60% within the age brackets of 21-30 years. Illiterate women constituted 15.9% of those sampled while civil servants were 13.6%. Testing for HBsAg is recommended for all pregnant women at first prenatal visit so that positive mothers receive prompt intervention.
Author Biography
Ndams I. S., Department of Biological Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
Head and Senior Lecturer, Department of Biological Sciences
