Semi-Quantitative Analysis and Serological Evidence of Hepatitis A Virus IgG Antibody among children in Rumuewhor, Emuoha, Rivers State, Nigeria

TL;DR

This study assessed the prevalence of Hepatitis A IgG antibodies among children in Rumuewhor, Nigeria, revealing significant endemicity and emphasizing the need for vaccination and health education to control the infection.

Contribution

It provides the first seroprevalence data of HAV among children in this Nigerian community, highlighting the importance of immunization and awareness programs.

Findings

24.7% of children tested positive for HAV IgG antibodies

Seropositivity was highest (33.3%) among children aged 4-6 years

No significant difference in seropositivity between genders

Abstract

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection has been greatly reduced in most developed countries through the use of vaccine and improved hygienic conditions. However, the magnitude of the problem is underestimated and there are no well-established Hepatitis A virus prevention and control strategies in Nigeria. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Hepatitis A virus infection among children aged 2 to 9 years in Rumuewhor, Emuoha LGA, Rivers State, Nigeria. Blood samples were collected from the 89 children enrolled in this study, and analyzed for the presence of HAV IgG antibodies using ELISA techniques. Of the 89 participants, 22 (24.7%) tested positive for HAV IgG antibodies, while 67 (75.3%) were negative. The children within the ages of 4 to 6 years had the highest seropositivity rate (33.3%) while those less than 4 years had the least seropositivity rate (22.4%). The prevalence rate ratio of the males to females was 1:1.3. There was no significant difference (p between IgG seropositivity and age groups and gender. However, there was a statistical association of IgG seropositivity rates with respect to immunization. The seroprevalence rate recorded in this study was significant, indicating that the virus is endemic in this study area. Proper awareness, health education and vaccination are imperative to controlling and preventing HAV infection in Rumuewhor, Emuoha, Rivers State, Nigeria.