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Sequencing of Bacterial Microflora in Peripheral Blood: our Experience with HIV-infected Patients
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Blood-borne viral co-infections among human immunodeficiency virus-infected inmates

Emanuele Pontali1, Nicoletta Bobbio1, Marilena Zaccardi2

  • 1Department of Infectious Diseases, Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy AND Department of Health in Prison, ASL3 Genovese, Prison of Genoa-Marassi, Genoa, Italy.

International Journal of Prisoner Health
|May 25, 2016
PubMed

Insights

High rates of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) co-infections are prevalent in HIV-infected inmates. Early screening for HBV and HCV in correctional facilities is crucial for timely care.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection is a significant global health concern.
  • Co-infections with Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) are common among individuals with HIV.
  • Correctional facilities represent a unique setting with a concentrated population of individuals at high risk for viral hepatitis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of HBV and/or HCV co-infection in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-infected inmates upon entry into a correctional facility.
  • To assess the rates of past HBV infection, active HBV co-infection, and HCV co-infection within this population.
  • To identify the occurrence of triple co-infection (HIV, HCV, and active HBV).

Main Methods:

  • A prospective study design was employed to collect data over a ten-year period.
  • Consecutive HIV-infected inmates entering the correctional institution were evaluated.
  • Testing for HBV and HCV markers was performed on all participants.

Main Results:

  • A total of 365 HIV-infected inmates were evaluated during the study period.
  • Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) co-infection was identified in over 80% of the inmates.
  • Past HBV infection was present in 71.6%, active HBV co-infection in 7.1%, and triple co-infection in 6% of the total cohort.

Conclusions:

  • This study highlights the exceptionally high prevalence of HBV and HCV co-infections among HIV-infected inmates.
  • Routine screening for HBV and HCV upon entry into correctional systems is strongly recommended.
  • Early identification facilitates targeted care and preventative interventions for co-infected individuals.

Keywords:
Blood-borne viral infectionsHIVHealth in prisonHepatitis BHepatitis CPrisoners

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