Background Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a vaccine-preventable infection that can spread in healthcare setting. Data on HBV infections and vaccine in African healthcare workers (HCWs) are limited. We estimated HBV infection prevalence, hepatitis B vaccination status and identified factors associated with vaccination in one Kenyan county. Methods Randomly selected HCWs completed a questionnaire about HBV exposure and self-reported immunization histories, and provided blood for testing of selected HBV biomarkers to assess HBV infection and vaccination status: HBV core antibodies (anti-HBc), HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and HBV surface antibodies (anti-HBs). Prevalence odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated to identify factors associated with vaccination. Results Among 312 HCWs surveyed, median age was 31 years (range: 19–67 years). Of 295 blood samples tested, 13 (4%) were anti-HBc and HBsAg-positive evidencing chronic HBV infection; 139 (47%) had protective anti-HBs levels. Although 249 (80%) HCWs received ≥1 HBV vaccine dose, only 119 (48%) received all three recommended doses. Complete vaccination was more likely among those working in hospitals compared to those working in primary healthcare facilities (OR = 2.5; 95% CI: 1.4–4.3). Conclusion We recommend strengthening county HCW vaccination, and collecting similar data nationally to guide HBV prevention and control.

Prevalence of hePatitis c virus and its genotyPes among a cohort of drug users in KenyaConclusions: these results demonstrate a high hcv infection prevalence among this cohort of drug users (22.2 %) as compared to that of the general population, which is estimated to be 0.2-0.9%. The study also confirms the presence of at least two major genotypes among Kenyan drug users (genotypes 1 and 4).

IntroductionAntiretroviral therapy plays a major role in reducing the impact of Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Disease Syndrome, especially in resource-limited settings. However, without proper infrastructure, it has resulted in emergence of drug resistance mutations in infected populations. To determine drug resistance mutations among patients attending a comprehensive care facility in Nairobi, 65 blood samples were successfully sequenced.MethodsWhole blood samples were also tested for CD4+T-cell count and plasma HIV-1 RNA Viral load. Drug-resistance testing targeting the HIV-1 RT gene was determined. Patients were on first line ART that consisted of two NRTIs, and one NNRTI.ResultsFemales were younger (mean 42) than males (mean 45) and lower median CD4+ counts (139 cells/μl) than males (152 cells/μl). The prevalence of drug resistance mutations (any major mutation) in this population was 23.1% (15/65). Major NRTI mutations were detected in 11 patient samples, which included M184V (n = 6), M41L (n=3), D67N (n=2), K219Q (n=3) and T215F (n=2). Major NNRTI mutations were detected in 14 patient samples. They included K103N (n = 10), G190A (n = 1), Y181C (n = 1) and Y188L (n = 1).ConclusionPresence of major mutations in this study calls for proper laboratory infrastructure to monitor treatment as well as regular appraisals of available regimens.