Children with hepatitis B virus infections, Democratic Republic of the Congo

To characterize childhood hepatitis B virus (HBV) epidemiology to inform elimination efforts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, one of the most populous African countries.

Using the most recent (2013-2014) nationally representative Demographic and Health Survey, we analysed hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) on dried blood spots and associated survey data from children aged 6-59 months. We estimated HBsAg-positivity prevalence nationally, regionally and by potential correlates of infection. We evaluated spatial variation in HBsAg-positivity prevalence overall, and by age, sex and vaccination status.

Using data representing 5773 children, we observed a national HBsAg-positivity prevalence of 1.3% (73/5773; 95% confidence interval, CI: 0.9 to 1.7), ranging from 0.0% in Kinshasa to 5.6% in Sud-Ubangi. Prevalence among boys (1.8%; 95% CI: 1.2 to 2.7) was double that among girls (0.7%; 95% CI: 0.4 to 1.3). Testing negative for tetanus antibodies, rural residence and poorer household were associated with higher HBsAg-positivity prevalence. We observed no difference in prevalence by age. Children had higher HBsAg-positivity odds if living with one or more HBsAg-positive adult household member (odds ratio, OR: 2.3; 95% CI: 0.7 to 7.8), particularly an HBsAg-positive mother (OR: 7.2; 95% CI: 1.6 to 32.3). Notably, nearly two thirds (36/51) of HBsAg-positive children had a HBsAg-negative mother.

Our investigation highlights the importance of subnational prevalence estimates in large countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and we have identified regions that may benefit from improved childhood vaccination delivery strategies and community HBV prevention efforts.