Frequency of hepatitis B surface antigen and anti-hapatitis C antibodies in remote villages of district Skardu

ABSTRACT

To determine the frequency of hepatitis B surface antigen and anti-hepatitis C virus antibodies in the remote villages of district Skardu. A prospective study in a field setting. 123 Medical Battalion [Civil Hospital Tolti] Oct 2010 to Oct 2011. The study was carried out during establishment of free medical camps at five villages of district Skardu; all above 2600 meters of sea level. They were tested for HBsAg and volunteer an anti HCV with rapid, one step immunochromatic essay. All positive samples were confirmed by a third generation ELISA. Of 3145 volunteers were tested for both viruses; 54 [1.71%] were found positive for HBsAg and 34[1.08%] for anti HCV. This 54[1.71%] were positive for HBsAg and 34[1.08%] for anti HCV. The frequency of HBsAg and anti HCV in these remote villages of Skardu is lesser than more developed areas of Pakistan.