Title:
Adherence to Hepatitis B vaccination schedules among health care workers in Kenya.

Authors:
Benard Kibet Langat, Winfrida Cheriro, Doris Night, Erick Rutto, Elisha Kutto, Sammy Kimoloi, Edward Kirwa Muge, Elijah Maritim Songok, Kenya

Abstract:

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV), a leading cause of acute and chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is the most easily transmitted blood-borne pathogen. Consequently, HBV poses a major occupational hazard for health care workers (HCWs), especially in high-endemic regions like sub-Saharan Africa. Complete multi-dose vaccination is recommended to prevent transmission, yet data on HCW adherence to HBV vaccine schedules in the region remain scarce. This study aimed to determine HBV prevalence and adherence to recommended vaccination schedules among Kenyan HCWs. Methods: This longitudinal study recruited 302 consenting HCWs from five public and private hospitals in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, and followed them for six months. Demographic data were obtained using questionnaires. HBV sero-prevalence was assessed using the Hepcell Rapid Test Kit. Of the participants, 298 tested HBsAg-negative and were subsequently enrolled for the three-dose HBV vaccination schedule. A vaccination register was used to document vaccine administration and ensure follow-up throughout the study period. Results: The study population had a mean age of 30.5 years and was 60.6% female. HBV prevalence was 1.3%. Among 298 HBV-negative HCWs, 90% completed all three vaccine doses, indicating a 10% non-adherence rate. Conclusion: HBsAg prevalence among HCWs in Uasin Gishu County was low, and at-risk health workers demonstrated high adherence to the recommended multidose HBV vaccination schedule.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.51505/ijmshr.2025.9616