Proportion of Infection by Hepatitis B, C, and Human Immunodeficiency Viruses Among Libyans and Foreign Workers in Tarhouna City

Abstract

Hepatitis B, C, and HIV are dangerous viruses that cause chronic health problems worldwide. Vaccination, antiviral medications, and antiretroviral therapy are crucial strategies to prevent and treat these infections. A study conducted from March to May 2023 evaluated the occurrence of HBsAg, HCV, and HIV in both male and female individuals across various nationalities, using statistics from the Health Clinic-Tarhouna archive. The study involved 106 reported cases that were investigated, with 99 (93.4%) males and 7 (6.6%) females. The results showed that the infection with hepatitis B and C and HIV was widespread among the individuals participating in the study. There were highly statistically significant differences between the types of hepatitis infection according to nationality; it was found that most of the infections by the hepatitis C virus were for patients of Egyptian nationality. As for gender, age, and profession, there are no significant differences between the types of hepatitis infection viruses. while other nationalities had a high incidence of the hepatitis B virus. The study recommends that all patients be screened for HBsAg, HCV, and HIV infection before residency, employment, and professional practice and undergo periodic ELISA examinations every six months.