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Amplifying and Quantifying HIV-1 RNA in HIV Infected Individuals with Viral Loads Below the Limit of Detection by Standard Clinical Assays
Published on: September 26, 2011
HIV and HCV prevalence among trawler crew
M MacDonald1, P Sullivan, A Locke
1National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research, University of New South Wales.
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health
|January 16, 1999
Summary
A study found that 27% of Australian trawler crew had Hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody, with 55% prevalence among injecting drug users (IDUs). Effective HCV prevention programs are needed for this diverse population.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Trawler crew may engage in behaviors increasing risk for blood-borne infections.
- Understanding the prevalence of HIV and HCV among this population is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe injecting and sexual behaviors among Australian trawler crew.
- To determine the prevalence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) antibodies in this group.
Main Methods:
- A survey of 51 trawler crew members departing from an Australian port.
- Self-administered questionnaires collected data on behaviors.
- Finger prick blood samples were analyzed for HIV and HCV antibodies.
Main Results:
- 45 crew members provided blood samples; 51 completed questionnaires.
- No HIV antibodies were detected.
- HCV antibodies were detected in 27% of respondents; 55% of injecting drug users (IDUs) tested positive for HCV.
- Half of respondents who reported new sex partners in the past month did not use condoms.
Conclusions:
- Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is endemic among injecting drug users (IDUs) in Australia, irrespective of their sub-population.
- The study highlights the diversity within the Australian IDU population.
- There is a need for targeted HCV prevention programs for IDUs and other at-risk groups.
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