Prevalence of Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV Infections in Working Children of Afghan Immigrants in Two Supporting Centers in Tehran and Alborz Provinces, Iran

Abstract

Background: Due to the increasing number of immigrations worldwide, the immigrants’ health assessment is a major issue especially in the working children of immigrants. Objectives: In the current study, hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections were tested in working children of Afghan immigrants in Iran. Methods: The current cross sectional study was conducted on working children of Afghan immigrants in Sarasiab (Tehran province) and Agh-Tappeh (Alborz province) supporting centers for HBsAg (hepatitis B surface antigen), HCVAb (hepatitis C virus antibody), and HIVAb (HIV antibody) using rapid diagnostic test. For each child, a questionnaire including demographics, life style, and risky behaviors items was filled. Results: In the current study, 339 (54% male) working children of Afghan immigrants with mean ± SD age of 12.83 ± 2.83 years were tested. Two (0.59%; 95% confidence interval (Cl) = 0.16% - 2.13%) of the children were positive for HBsAg, while none were positive for HCVAb and HIVAb (0%, 95% Cl = 0% - 1.12%). Conclusions: The implementation of neonatal HBV vaccination and prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HBV should be considered in Afghan immigrants in Iran.