Abstract :
Introduction: About half a million people die globally from chronic Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection.
Objectives: This study was conducted to determine the distribution and risk factors of the infection among university students in Kogi state.
Materials and Methods: Data on demographic and risk factors indicators were collected using questionnaires and blood samples tested for HBV.
Results: (47.4%) of the respondents were engaged in the sharing of sharp objects, only (5.7%) were engaged in IDU. One-tenth, (20.0%) of the respondents were engaged in unprotected sexual intercourse (Only 20.8% of age group less than or equal to 20 had good knowledge of prevention of HBV. Less than one- tenth, (3.1%) were positive to Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBSAg) of respondents within the age group 21-25 compared with about one-quarter, (15.2%) of those in the age group 26-30 that were positive to HBsAg.
Conclusion: This study highlights the need for improved awareness among University students in Kogi State.
Keyword :
Kogi state university students, Hepatitis B virus, Seroprevalence.