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Author Spotlight: Advancements and Challenges in Hepatitis B Virus Detection
Published on: December 15, 2023
Hepatitis B Vaccination Coverage of Preschool Children in Libreville, Gabon: Prevalence and Determining Factors
S Minto'o1, E Kuissi Kamgaing2, U Bisvigou3
1Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Libreville, Gabon. Correspondence to: Dr Steeve Minto'o, Faculty of Medicine, P.O. Box 4009 Libreville, Gabon.steeve.mintoo@hotmail.fr.
Insights
Hepatitis B vaccine coverage in Libreville reached 78.6%, below WHO goals. Parental confidence and family size influenced vaccination rates, highlighting the need for healthcare provider engagement.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Vaccinology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Hepatitis B remains a significant global health concern.
- Effective vaccination strategies are crucial for preventing disease transmission.
- Understanding vaccination coverage in specific regions is vital for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate hepatitis B vaccine coverage among preschool children in Libreville, Gabon.
- To identify factors associated with hepatitis B vaccine uptake in this population.
- To compare coverage rates with World Health Organization (WHO) objectives.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study design was employed.
- Cluster random sampling of 500 children aged 4 months to 5 years was conducted across 5 medical centers.
- Hepatitis B vaccination records were systematically evaluated.
Main Results:
- Hepatitis B vaccine coverage was found to be 78.6% (95% CI 75%-82.2%).
- Factors positively associated with vaccine coverage included parental confidence in the vaccine (OR=2.2) and having fewer children than the median (aOR=1.6).
- Having working mothers or fathers was also linked to higher vaccine coverage.
Conclusions:
- Hepatitis B vaccine coverage in Libreville falls short of WHO targets.
- Parental confidence in vaccines is a key determinant of vaccine uptake.
- Healthcare providers play a critical role in enhancing parental confidence and improving vaccination rates.
Objective:
We aimed to assess hepatitis B vaccination coverage (vaccine coverage) among preschool children in Libreville, Gabon, and determine associated factors.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was done evaluating hepatitis B vaccination records, by cluster random sampling of children aged 4 months to 5 years from 5 medical centres.
Results:
Of the 500 children (243 males) included, we found a hepatitis B vaccine coverage of 78.6% (95% CI 75% to 82.2%). Factors significantly associated with vaccine coverage included parental confidence in the vaccine (OR=2.2;95% CI 1.4-5.5), the number of children at home lower than the median (aOR=1.6; 95% CI ; 1.3-3.7). and working mothers/fathers.
Conclusion:
Hepatitis B vaccine coverage in Libreville is lower than WHO objectives. Healthcare providers have a crucial role in building up confidence among parents.
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