Hepatitis B Surface Antibody Levels among Health-Care Personnel Vaccinated against Hepatitis B in a Teaching Hospital in South India.

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B virus infection is a global health priority, and health-care personnel (HCP) have 10 times higher prevalence than the general population. Seromonitoring identifies those with low titers and vaccine nonresponders with increased risk.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to assess hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) titers and associated factors among HCP vaccinated against hepatitis B in a teaching hospital in Kerala.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was done among 454 vaccinated HCP, and anti-HBs antibody titers were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method.

RESULTS

Participants included 162 (35.7%) doctors, 132 (29.3%) nursing and laboratory personnel, and 160 (35.3%) supporting staff. The mean age was 38.06 ± 11.33 years, and 72% were female. Majority (92.5%, 420) were seroprotected and 78.9% (358) with high (>100 mIU) titers. Moderate (10-100 mIU) and low (<10 mIU) level seroprotection was seen in 13.7% (62) and 7.5% (34), respectively. Incomplete vaccination, >10 years since vaccination, and age >40 years were independent predictors for poor seroprotection, while increasing doses and boosters were positively associated.

CONCLUSIONS

Majority of vaccinated HCP were seroprotected. Incomplete schedules, older age, and prolonged time since vaccination can lead to decline in titers, and periodical seromonitoring should guide hepatitis B revaccination strategies.