Hepatitis B Vaccination Coverage and Sharp Injuries Among Healthcare Workers in Hamadan, Iran

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the most common pathogens associated with needle stick and sharp injuries (NSSIs) among healthcare workers. The aim of this study was to evaluate HBV vaccination coverage and NSSIs among healthcare workers in Hamadan. This cross-sectional study was performed on teaching hospitals personnel in 2010. A two-part questionnaire was designed for data collection. All participants completed the first part, which concerned demographic data, history of HBV vaccination, and hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb) testing. If a history of NSSI during the preceding year was noted, the second part was completed that consisted of data about characteristics of injury including time, place, and method as well as the measures taken after the injuries. Out of 700 healthcare workers, 585 had a complete course of HBV vaccination and only 45.7% had checked the titer of HBsAb. A total of 294 participants (42%) had positive results for HBsAb titer. The rate of accidental NSSI was 24.1% during the preceding year and 48.5% of NSSIs were during blood sampling or intravenous catheter insertion. Hepatitis B vaccination of all nonimmune healthcare workers and measuring HBsAb after vaccination can reduce the risk of nosocomial transmission of HBV to medical staff. Furthermore, the risk of blood-borne disease transmission can be reduced by educating medical personnel on effective methods of reducing the risk of NSSIs as well as taking appropriate measures when NSSIs occur.