Vaccination Status Against the Hepatitis B Virus of the Patients Visiting a Tertiary Care Dental Hospital

Abstract

Abstract:

Objective

To assess the vaccination status for Hepatitis B virus among patients attending a tertiary care dental hospital in Multan, aiming to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement in vaccination coverage.

Methods

This cross-sectional questionnaire study conducted at Multan Dental College from June 2023 to Feb 2023 included patients attending the dental OPD. 181 participants completed the questionnaire regarding vaccination status. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained from Multan Dental Hospital.

Results

Among 181 participants, 98 (54.14%) were males and 83 (45.86%) were females. Regarding age groups, 36 (19.9%) were 16-20 years old, 69 (38.12%) were 21-25 years old, 54 (29.83%) were 26-30 years old, and 22 (12.15%) were 31 years old or above. Out of 181 participants, 51 (28.17%) were non-vaccinated, while 130 (71.83%) were vaccinated. Among the vaccinated, 47 (26%) received the 1st dose, 36 (19.9%) received the 2nd and 3rd doses each, and 11 (6.07%) received the Booster dose. The majority (58.82%) of non-vaccinated individuals cited multiple reasons for not receiving immunization, including vaccine unavailability and busy schedules. Additionally, 9.8% lacked awareness of the vaccination, while others mentioned injection phobia and lack of motivation

Conclusion

The study emphasizes the challenge of incomplete vaccination among patients, which necessitates coordinated efforts by public health officials. Implementing AI-powered reminder systems could effectively address this issue, improving vaccination rates and public health outcomes.