Prevalence of hepatitis C, hepatitis B and human immunodeficiency virus infection among blood donors at Fatimid center Multan

ABSTRACT

To find out the prevalence of Hepatitis C, Hepatitis B and HIV infection among blood donors at Fatimid Center, Multan., determine whether the laboratory methods to be used for the detection of HBV, HCV and HIV infection and disseminate the findings of the study for the constitution of proper screening programme at blood transfusion centers. This cross-sectional study was designed to know the screening pattern of Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and human immunodeficiency virus in blood donors at Fatimid Center Multan during the period from November 2001 to December 2001. Hepatitis C, Hepatitis B and HIV infection is commonly transmitted via blood, blood products and unsafe sex from one person to another in the community. 1014 blood donors were screened for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV antigen. 79 were found reactive for HBV, 37 reactive for HCV and HIV reactive was found none. The recipients of Hepatitis C and Hepatitis B reactive blood are 20 times more likely to have evidence of post transfusion Hepatitis C and Hepatitis B infection than recipient of Hepatitis C and Hepatitis B non reactive blood. This study was carried out with the objectives to see prevalence of Hepatitis C, Hepatitis B and HIV infection in blood donors, Hepatitis B Hepatitis C and HIV infection association with parentraI therapies, etc. Blood donors record for HBV, HCV and HIV was collected from blood bank of Fatimid Center Multan. Among 79 Hepatitis B reactive blood donors 30 [37.97%] had history of previous blood transfusion, 7 [8.86%] had parentral therapy, 2 [2.53%] had history of drug addiction, 2 [2.53%] had history of sexual contact while 37 Hepatitis C reactive blood donors 5 [13.51%] had history of previous blood transfusion and 20 [54.05%] had history of parentral therapy. None had history drug addiction, 9 [24.32%] had history of sexual contact. Luckily no HIV infection reactive case was found. The results of the present study underline the dire need to have a national comprehensive plan with multidisciplinary approach for HBV, HCV, HIV prevention is the community. It is suggested that blood and blood products should be screened for HCV, HBV, HIV infection before transfusion and use of disposable syringes, other sterilized instruments during hospital stay and use of disposable razors at barbers shop must be kept in mind