Abstract:

Background: Knowledge and risk factors assessment about HBV infections among HCWs is important in maximizing vaccine uptake. This study aimed at assessing awareness of HBV infection, risk factors and reasons for low vaccine uptake among HCWs in Mwanza Tanzania.

Methodology: The study was conducted in Mwanza city at Sekou Toure Regional Hospital. Cross sectional study design involving HCWs at risk of Hepatitis B infection was done. S self-administered questionnaires were used to obtaining information of research interest. Data were computerized using Epi info 3.1 and analysis was accomplished STATA 13.

Results: A total of HCW were included in this study. From this study the awareness about HBV infections to HCW is high, (96.0%) where low knowledge on vaccination (57.2%). On average (54.1%) were at risk for HBV infections with 66.7% of vaccine uptake included difficulty making appointment, (82.0%), 79.3% thought vaccines of were of high costs and 36% did not give priority to vaccine. Also study show that, being a student was an independent predictor for low vaccination uptake (OR: 7.1, P=<0.001).

Conclusion: A Significant proportion of HCS were at risk of HBV infection with a low vaccine uptake. A continue medical education especially among students will probably maximize the vaccine uptake among HCWs.