Vaccination Gaps Despite High Awareness: A Study of Hepatitis B Risk and Uptake Among High-Risk Healthcare Workers in Zaria, Nigeria

Abstract

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a significant occupational hazard for healthcare workers, particularly in regions with high disease endemicity such as Nigeria. This study assesses the knowledge, risk, and Vaccination status among high-risk healthcare workers in Ahmadu Bello University Medical Centre, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. The research aims to assess the level of knowledge, perceived risk, vaccination status, and factors influencing vaccine uptake among healthcare workers. A descriptive, non-experimental cross-sectional study design was adopted, utilizing self-structured questionnaires administered to 80 healthcare workers selected through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 24 and presented in tables. Findings reveal that logistic regression analysis identified several factors significantly associated with Hepatitis B vaccination uptake among healthcare workers. Profession emerged as a significant predictor, with nurses being less likely to be vaccinated compared to doctors (Odds Ratio [OR] = 0.78; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.54–0.98; p = 0.037). Age showed a positive association with vaccine uptake (OR = 1.30; 95% CI: 1.08–1.59; p< 0.001), indicating that older healthcare workers were more likely to complete the vaccination schedule. Similarly, years of service were significantly associated with increased vaccination (OR = 1.19; 95% CI: 1.09–1.32; p = 0.032), suggesting that cumulative workplace exposure may influence uptake. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions, including employer-driven vaccination policies, educational workshops, and improved vaccine accessibility. Government and non-governmental organizations should prioritize awareness campaigns and mandatory vaccination programs to enhance protection among high-risk healthcare workers.