Hepatitis B vaccination among primary health care workers in Northwest Pakistan

Background: We assessed hepatitis B vaccination and its determinants among health care workers (HCW) in rural Northwest Pakistan. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted among 485 HCWs from both public and private clinics. Data about hepatitis B vaccination, socio-demographic, knowledge regarding modes of transmission of hepatitis B virus, perceived disease severity and benefits of vaccination was collected through questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed. Results: Prevalence of complete hepatitis B vaccination was 40% (among Physicians with MBBS/MD qualification; 86% and lowest among non-qualified Dispensers; 16%). Also, prevalence was higher among HCWs from public Dispensaries (77%) than those working in private clinics (35%). Being MBBS/MD Physician (Adj. OR 26.60; 95% CI 9.27-73.23), Non-MBBS/MD Physician (Adj. OR 1.89; 95% CI 0.78-4.59), qualified Dispensers (Adj. OR 3.58; 95% CI 1.34-9.54) compared to non-qualified Dispensers, working in public clinics (Adj. OR 2.54; 95% CI 1.13-5.69) as compared to private, perceived disease threat after exposure to blood and body fluids (Adj. OR 1.11; 95% CI 1.03-1.19) and perceived benefits of hepatitis B vaccination (Adj. OR 1.13; 95% CI 1.09-1.19) were significant predictors of complete hepatitis B vaccination. Conclusion: Improved perception of disease threat and benefits of vaccination and qualification of HCWs are associated with hepatitis B vaccination among Primary HCWs.