Sero-positivity of Anti-HAV IgG in Young Hospital Workers

Park, Il Joong; Lee, Wee Gyo; Lim, Young Ae; Lee, Pil Oh

Abstract

BACKGROUND
In recent years, the transmission of hepatitis A virus (HAV) through transfusion has been rare; however, recently there has been a case reported in Korea along with a recent increase in the number of HAV infections. In order to provide baseline information regarding sero-positivity of HAV in healthcare workers (HCWs), we tested for the presence of anti-HAV IgG antibodies in hospital employees who were under 40 years old. Data of HCWs as blood donors was analyzed to help management of blood donors.
METHODS
Between July and August 2009, we measured anti-HAV IgG antibodies in HCWs who were in their twenties to thirties, using Architect i2000 (Abbott, Chicago, USA). Sero-positivity was obtained according to age and gender.
RESULTS
A total of 1824 HCWs participated in this study, and sero-positivity was significantly different by age; 1.8% (5/275) in the 20~24 year old range, 6.7% (44/661) in the 25~29 year old range, 29.7% (159/536) in the 30~34 year old range, and 57.1% (201/352) in the 35~39 year old range. However, there was no significant difference according to gender.
CONCLUSION
Sero-positivity of the anti-HAV IgG antibody was low in HCWs under 30 years old. Therefore, vaccination against HAV in this population should be fortified with respect to blood donor management. Moreover, an improved system of recording history with respect to early symptoms of HAV infection as well as vaccination history may be helpful in preventing the transmission of HAV through transfusion.