RESUMO
Background and study aims: Liver disease caused by hepatitis C virus [HCV] is one of the most serious health issues worldwide. The prevalence of HCV among health care workers [HCWs] is higher than normal population. Our aim is to determine the seroprevalence of HCV among this high-risk group in Damascus Hospital, Syria in 2016
Subjects and methods: During March 2016, anonymous testing for HCV was offered to 150 residents and physicians from different departments [Surgery, otolaryngology, gastroenterology, anaesthesiology and laboratory] in Damascus Hospital using fourth-generation enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA]. In addition, each participant was interviewed and answered a comprehensive questionnaire which includes questions on potential hazards, risk factors and the level of awareness about the disease and its ways of transmission
Results: Surprisingly, all samples tested negative for anti-HCV antibodies, though many participants were already exposed to many risk factors especially as HCWs
Conclusion: HCV is not a main issue regarding its prevalence among HCWs in Damascus Hospital. Nevertheless, it is still necessary to develop a mandatory well-organized program to increase the awareness among HCWs and develop stricter prevention policies especially about bloodborne diseases transmitted occupationally