HepB-Boost: Implementation of free of charge healthcare worker hepatitis B testing and vaccination at Kilifi County Referral Hospital, Kenya
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Objective
Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at high risk of HBV exposure due to contact with blood and bodily fluids. In Kenya, HCWs are rarely fully vaccinated against HBV. During 2024, Kilifi County Referral Hospital (KCRH) on the Kenyan coast implemented HBV testing and vaccination for KCRH HCWs.
Methods
A technical working group was formed at KCRH to implement and assess a new HBV HCW vaccination programme. Sensitisation was undertaken and vaccines were procured in multi-dose vials. Clinics were run for two hours twice weekly over six-months. HBsAg testing was available, and vaccination offered at 0, 1 and 6 months. Cost analysis was undertaken along with an assessment of vaccination feasibility within existing hospital infrastructure.
Findings
366/574 (64%) of staff received at least one vaccine. Of those attending, the number of fully vaccinated staff increased from 189/366 (5%) to 164/366 (45%), with 289/366 (79%) receiving at least two vaccines. 125/366 (35%) were tested for HBsAg among whom 4/125 (3%) tested positive. Previous HBV vaccination and opting for HBsAg testing were associated with vaccination completion. The estimated cost of the vaccination programme was $4176 with each fully vaccinated person costing $25.45. The primary obstacle to vaccination in this programme was a national shortage of HBV monovalent vaccine in multi-dose vials.
Conclusions
HBV vaccination for HCWs was feasible and acceptable at KCRH and could be offered at other similar sized hospitals. Consistent access to HBV monovalent vaccine must be a priority for Kenya, and HCW occupational health screening for HBsAg should be routine.
