Reduced seroprevalence of hepatitis A virus among Japanese healthcare workers as a risk factor for occupational infection

Nori Yoshioka, Matsuo Deguchi, Hideharu Hagiya, Masanori Kagita, Kazunori Tomono

Research output: Contribution to journal › Article

Abstract

Background: With the improvement in sanitation and hygiene, the incidence of hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection has declined, and its seroprevalence among Japanese people has been reduced. Universal HAV vaccination is yet to be implemented in Japan, and the healthcare workers (HCWs) are at higher risks of acquiring this infection. We herein report the seroepidemiology of HAV infection among HCWs at Osaka University Hospital. Methods: Between September and October 2017, we collected serum samples submitted to our laboratory for HCWs health examination and tested for the anti-HAV antibody. Results: Overall HAV seropositivity rate was 5.1% (22/436 samples). The seroprevalence was higher among those in the twenties (6.0%) and thirties (8.0%), compared to older age groups. Conclusions: In this age of internationalization, the decreasing immunity for HAV places HCWs at risk of developing the disease. As a preventive measure against occupational infection, HAV vaccination may be needed for Japanese HCWs.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1791-1793
Number of pages3
JournalClinical Laboratory
Volume64
Issue number10
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 1 2018
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Hepatitis A
  • Occupational infection
  • Vaccination

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology(all)

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