[Hepatitis B and C infection in late repatriates]

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Context:

• Late repatriates returning to Germany from high-prevalence regions (Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan) represent a unique demographic.
• Previous studies have not extensively evaluated viral hepatitis prevalence in this specific population group.
• Understanding infection rates is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose:

• To determine the prevalence of past or present viral hepatitis B and C infections among late repatriates.
• To identify individuals who are potential sources of infection (PCR positive).
• To compare prevalence rates with the general German population.

Summary:

• Among 105 late repatriates tested, 20% had evidence of hepatitis B (Anti-HBc) and 3% had evidence of hepatitis C (Anti-HCV).
• 5% of individuals tested positive for HBV-DNA or HCV-DNA via PCR, indicating active infection, and were unaware of their status.
• The prevalence of both hepatitis B and C was significantly higher than in the general German population.

Impact:

• Highlights a higher-than-expected burden of viral hepatitis B and C in late repatriates.
• Suggests that current screening strategies may not adequately reach this population.
• Recommends targeted screening for viral hepatitis B and C for all late repatriates from high-prevalence areas.