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Published on: December 15, 2023

Injections given in healthcare settings as a major source of acute hepatitis B in Moldova

Y J Hutin1, R Harpaz, J Drobeniuc

  • 1Hepatitis Branch, Division of Viral and Rickettsial Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA. yah5@cdc.gov

International Journal of Epidemiology
|September 10, 1999
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Unsafe injections are a primary driver of acute hepatitis B transmission in Moldova. Implementing proper infection control is crucial for preventing blood-borne infections like hepatitis B.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Hepatology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • High incidence of acute hepatitis B reported in former Soviet Union republics.
  • Transmission routes for hepatitis B virus (HBV) remain inadequately defined in these regions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify risk factors for acute hepatitis B infection in children and adults in Moldova.
  • To investigate the role of specific exposure events in HBV transmission.

Main Methods:

  • Two case-control studies conducted in Moldova.
  • Serologically confirmed acute hepatitis B cases matched with controls.
  • Stratified odds ratios (SOR) calculated using bivariate and multivariate analyses.

Main Results:

  • Adults with acute hepatitis B were significantly more likely to report recent injections from dental, hospital, or polyclinic visits.
  • Children with acute hepatitis B were more likely to report injections during hospital visits.
  • Multivariate analysis identified specific healthcare settings associated with increased risk.

Conclusions:

  • Injections administered in healthcare settings appear to be a major source of hepatitis B virus transmission in Moldova.
  • Highlights the critical need for enhanced infection-control practices in healthcare facilities.
  • Emphasizes the importance of preventing blood-borne infections through improved injection safety.
Keywords:
AdultAge FactorsBiologyCase Control StudiesChildDelivery Of Health CareDemographic FactorsDeveloped CountriesDiseasesEastern EuropeEuropeHealthHealth FacilitiesHealth ServicesHepatitis--determinantsHepatitis--transmissionMoldovaNew Independent StatesPopulationPopulation CharacteristicsResearch MethodologyResearch ReportRisk FactorsStudiesViral DiseasesYouth

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