Background
HCV-infection is the main cause of chronic liver disease among Egyptians, the most commonly infected population with HCV genotype 4. The great risk of exposure to infection of health care workers(HCWs) has highlighted the urgent need for implementing an infection control program. Therefore,
healthcare workers (HCWs) are the target population of the current study.
Aim: The study evaluated the prevalence of viral hepatitis C (HCV) infection among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Benha University hospital and Benha Teaching Hospital.
Material and methods: one thousand (1000) health care workers were included in the study at Benha University hospital and Benha Teaching Hospital, including 256 resident physicians, 644 nurses and 100 workers. HCV Ab in serum was detected by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay kits.
Result: The result of this study showed that, out of 1000 studied HCWs, 90 cases (9%) were positive for hepatitis C antibody (HCV Ab). 53.70% of all (HCWs) exposed to needle sticks injury (NSI).
Conclusion: These findings can be used to shape future HCV prevention policies in Egypt.