Abstract

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are highly endemic in Nigeria and are important causes of morbidity and mortality. Co-infection of HBV and HIV commonly occur as both viruses share common modes of transmission. The goal of the study was to determine the presence of HBV in HIV positive persons at Specialist Hospital, Jalingo, Taraba State. A total of 218 HIV positive persons (60 males and 158 females) between the ages of 15-65 years were recruited for this study. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to screen participants for the presence of HBsAg. A high seroprevalence was observed for HIV/HBV co-infection. The demographic characteristics of participants were obtained using a structured questionnaire. Twenty-four (24) people tested positive for HBV, resulting in an 11% overall prevalence. No significant association was found to exist between HIV/HBV co-infection and the demographic characteristics of the study population (p>0.05). However, knowledge, attitudes and practices shared significant association between HIV/HBV co-infection (p<0.05). There is urgent need for a provider-initiated routine counseling and screening for viral hepatitis with adequate follow-up and treatment for co-infected individuals and Hepatitis B vaccination for those without co-infection to reduce morbidity and mortality in this group.