Community Pharmacists Role on Hepatitis B Vaccination and Immunization in Nigeria

Background: Hepatitis B is an infectious disease of the liver, affecting millions of people throughout the world. Objectives : The aim of the study was to evaluate the roles of community pharmacist in Nigeria on Hepatitis B Vaccination and immunization Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 49 registered community pharmacists in a state in Nigeria. Convenience sampling technique was employed. Ethical approval was obtained for the study. A structured questionnaire was adapted and used as instrument for data collection. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23 and summarized using descriptive statistics frequency (%), mean. The scores obtained were compared using ANOVA and Independent student’s test. The relationship between sociodemographic characteristics of the respondents and their role on Hepatitis B vaccination was assessed using Chi square. Statistical significance was established at p<0.05 Results: More females 31(63.3%) than males participated in the study. Majority of the pharmacists 46(93.3%) had B.Pharm. as the highest qualification while 40(81.6%) of the pharmacists were within the first five years of practice. A good number of the respondents 45(91.8%) do not provide immunization services in their pharmacies while only 1(2%) pharmacist administer Hepatitis B vaccine to their clients. Community pharmacists’ provision of immunization services and their role on Hepatitis B vaccination and immunization had no statistically significant relationship with their sociodemographic characteristics. Conclusion: The Community pharmacists were involved in educating clients on Hepatitis B vaccination through campaign programs. Adequate efforts should be made to empower community pharmacists through trainings in other areas.