Post-exposure prophylaxis following occupational exposure to HIV and hepatitis B: an analysis of a 12-year record in a Nigerian tertiary hospital

Abstract

Background: Healthcare workers (HCWs) have an increased risk of occupational exposure to blood-borne pathogens. Aims/objectives: We aim to examine the utilisation and outcome of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for both HIV and hepatitis B (HBV) among HCWs. Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted in a tertiary hospital in North-Western Nigeria. We reviewed data on HIV or HBV PEP given to HCWs between 2004 and 2016. Results: A total of 115 HCWs presented for PEP during the study period. Intern doctors were the most exposed group (40/115; 34.8%). There were 86/115 (74.8%) needle stick exposures. While 53/115 (46.1%) of the sources of exposure were HIV-positive, 9/115(7.83%) were HBV-positive. Zidovudine-based regimen (40/70) was the most commonly prescribed. No seroconversion occurred among those that completed PEP treatment and follow-up. Discussion: No seroconversion occurred among those that received either or both HIV and HBV PEP and completed PEP treatment.