Hepatitis B Vaccination Status, Knowledge, and Attitudes among Healthcare Workers in Military Hospital, Khartoum State: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Abstract Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a significant public health issue that causes a substantial number of cases of hepatitis-related illness and death. It is particularly important to vaccinate healthcare workers (HCWs), as they face a higher risk of HBV infection due to their exposure to infected blood and other bodily fluids in their line of work. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently recommends HBV vaccination for adult populations at risk of infection. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the vaccination status, knowledge, and attitudes of HCWs toward HBV vaccination in a military hospital. Materials and Methods: An institution-based descriptive cross-sectional study performed between May 2022 and September 2022 for HCWs working in Omdurman Military Hospital who were available at the time of data collection; data were collected using a self-administered and online questionnaire; the obtained results were analyzed. Results and Conclusion: Only 50% of HCWs in military hospitals possessed adequate knowledge, while the majority exhibited a positive attitude toward HBV infection. In terms of vaccination status, approximately two-thirds of HCWs were immunized, but only half of them completed the recommended number of vaccine doses. The educational activities of the infection control training programs should be strengthened to enhance the awareness of HCWs regarding HBV infection and vaccination. It is necessary to implement comprehensive vaccination programs against hepatitis B in various medical fields. In addition, a mandatory and cost-free policy for hepatitis B vaccination should be established for HCWs and medical students.