Publication:

Hepatitis B infection and vaccination: knowledge and attitude among medical students

Background Hepatitis B infection among health care professionals can be prevented by strategies like vaccination, increasing awareness and following universal precautions. The present study was conducted on newly admitted medical students to evaluate knowledge regarding HBV and to know their vaccination status. This occasion was also used to motivate students to take HBV vaccine if not taken earlier and to educate about universal precautions.

Methods Cross sectional study was carried out on newly admitted 1st MBBS students. All the students present on the day of data collection were included in the study and interviewed using pretested questionnaire. Data was analysed using percentages.

Results Most of the students had good knowledge about disease and modes of transmission & prevention. Surprisingly half of them were unaware of high risk of transmission to health professional. Nearly 40% of the students were unimmunized mainly due to lack of awareness and motivation.

Conclusions It is recommended for Hepatitis B vaccination for all unimmunized students who enter medical profession. The orientation and sensitization programme should be held to create awareness regarding HBV infection.