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Hepatitis C among blood donors in Jakarta

I S Timan1, J Latu, D Aulia

  • 1Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta.

Insights

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) causes non-A non-B hepatitis (NANBH), often via blood transfusions. This study found a 1.6% HCV antibody prevalence in Indonesian blood donors, indicating transmission risks.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Virology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a primary cause of non-A non-B hepatitis (NANBH), predominantly transmitted through blood transfusions.
  • NANBH accounts for 90-95% of post-transfusion hepatitis (PTH) in Western countries.
  • HCV antibody detection is crucial for identifying transmission following the identification of its viral protein.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of HCV antibodies in Indonesian blood donors.
  • To assess the risk of HCV transmission through blood components in Indonesia.

Main Methods:

  • The study utilized the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) method (Ortho) for antibody detection.
  • A total of 193 blood donors were screened for the presence of HCV antibodies.

Main Results:

  • The prevalence of HCV antibodies among the screened blood donors was found to be 1.6% (3 out of 193).
  • This finding suggests a significant presence of HCV in the Indonesian blood donor population.

Conclusions:

  • HCV infection is a concern in Indonesian blood donors, highlighting the need for effective screening.
  • Implementing robust HCV screening protocols is essential to prevent transfusion-transmitted HCV infections in Indonesia.

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