Needlestick and Sharp Injuries and Hepatitis B Vaccination among Healthcare Workers: A Cross Sectional Study in Six District Hospitals in Yaounde (Cameroon)
Fabrice Zobel Lekeumo Cheuyem, Emilia Lyonga, Hortense Gonsu Kamga, François‐Xavier Mbopi‐Kéou, Innocent Takougang
Abstract
Introduction:Accidental exposure to blood and body fluids (AEB) in the workplace account for 40 % of contamination by hepatitis B virus (HBV) and 2-3% by HIV among Healthcare Workers (HCW).Developing countries are most affected.The present study sought to determine the prevalence of percutaneous injury and hepatitis B vaccination coverage among HCW.Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out from January to April 2022 in six district hospitals in Yaounde using a self-administered questionnaire.Out of the 279 HCW who were solicited, 217 returned completed questionnaires.Results: More than half (54%) of HCW reported an AEB in the last 12 months.The prevalence of AEB varied among hospitals with the Nkolndongo DH reporting the highest prevalence (52%).Only one-third (34%) of HCW were fully vaccinated while 53% were unvaccinated.The lowest compliance with vaccination was observed among hygiene personnel (10%).The high cost of the vaccine was the main reported reason for non-compliance (39%).Conclusion: There is an urgent need to set up a monitoring system for the implementation of infection control and prevention in District Hospitals.Awareness on the burden of exposure to blood and body fluids, including prevention options should be raised among healthcare workers.Managers of health facilities should set up measures to improve access to HB vaccine.