Age-Specific Prevalence and Vulnerability to Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Infection in Kaura Namoda, Nigeria

Umar; K Sunusi; I Musa; Ogbonnaya N; Saidu; HK; Abdulrahman A

doi:10.56201/ijhpr.vol.10.no10.2025.pg1.6

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Age-Specific Prevalence and Vulnerability to Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Infection in Kaura Namoda, Nigeria

Umar, A, K Sunusi, I Musa, Ogbonnaya N, Saidu, HK, Abdulrahman A

Abstract

Age is a crucial factor in the transmission and development of infectious illnesses; nevertheless, age-specific patterns in Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) incidence remain little investigated in rural Nigerian populations. This research analyses the age-stratified prevalence of HBV cases in the Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, Zamfara State, Nigeria, utilising hospital-based data from 2019 to 2023. Confirmed HBV cases were classified into three age categories: children (0– 9 years), teenagers (10–19 years), and adults (20 years and older). Analysis of secondary data from Kauran Namoda General Hospital indicated that the adult demographic exhibited the highest prevalence, succeeded by teenagers, whilst children demonstrated the lowest infection rates. The low incidence among children is probably attributable to the efficacy of Nigeria's standard baby immunisation initiatives. Nonetheless, adolescents and adults—many of whom were born before to the advent of mass vaccination—continue to be susceptible due to occupational exposure, customary practices employing unsterilised tools, and restricted access to catch-up immunisation. These findings highlight the necessity of broadening HBV control methods beyond paediatric immunisation. The report advocates for age-specific treatments, including health education aimed at adolescents in schools, mobile outreach services for adults, and the incorporation of HBV immunisation into workplace health programs. Catch-up immunisation initiatives must be expanded to address immunity deficiencies in older demographics. Comprehending the varying impact of HBV across age groups is crucial for attaining equitable and thorough disease management. This study provides critical insights to guide targeted, age-responsive interventions designed to mitigate HBV transmission and attain eradication objectives in high-risk rural communities.

Keywords

Age-specific prevalence; Hepatitis B Virus; Immunization gaps; Adolescents and

References

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Age-Specific Prevalence and Vulnerability to Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Infection in Kaura Namoda, Nigeria

Abstract

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