Distribution of hepatitis B virus infection in Namibia

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Virology

Background:

• Namibia declared hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection a public health problem, implementing infant vaccinations in 2009.
• Limited data on HBV infection hinders effective public health interventions.
• WHO estimates suggest 15-60% of African populations may have HBV serological markers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the distribution of HBV infection in Namibia using 2013 laboratory data.
• To identify high-risk populations and geographical areas for HBV infection.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional descriptive study utilizing electronic laboratory data from January-December 2013.
• Data collected from the Namibia Institute of Pathology, Windhoek.
• Testing included pregnant women (antenatal care), HIV/AIDS patients (antiretroviral therapy clinics), and individuals suspected of HBV infection.

Main Results:

• Overall, 11.8% (9,087/77,238) of hepatitis B surface antigen tests were positive.
• Children (0-14 years) accounted for 2.7% of positive results, with equal sex distribution.
• HBV infections were notably higher in females aged 15-39, peaking between 30-34 years. Routine screening was limited to two regions.

Conclusions:

• High HBV positivity rates were observed in pregnant women, HIV/AIDS patients, and suspected cases.
• Recommendations include improving viral hepatitis surveillance and expanding HBV screening for pregnant women and other populations.
• Further population-based studies are needed to determine HBV prevalence and risk factors for national strategy development.