Sero-epidemiology of hepatitis B and C virus infections in international travelers in Qingdao

Objective To understand the sero-epidemiology of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections in international travelers in Qingdao and provide evidence for the prevention and control of HBV and HCV. Methods A retrospective study was conducted in Qingdao port from 2009 to 2015. Blood samples and demographic information were collected from 23 720 international travelers who would stay in China for at least 1 year. HBV surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-HCV antibody were detected by using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were detected. Results A total of 23 720 international travelers, including 15 653 males and 8 067 females, were included in the study. Their mean age was 37.2712.72 years. Overall, 776 (3.27%) of international travelers were HBsAg or anti-HCV antibody positive. The sero-prevalence of HBV and HCV infections were 2.81% and 0.46%, respectively. Further survey results showed that the sero-prevalence of HBsAg were associated with age, gender and nationality, but the anti HCV positive rate was only associated with age. Abnormal ALT levels in both HBV infection and HCV infection occurred mainly males and abnormal ALT level in HCV infection was observed mainly in age group 50-60 years. Conclusion The study results indicated that the prevalence of HBV and HCV infections differed with age, gender and nationality in international travelers in Qingdao, it is necessary to take targeted surveillance and intervention measures. Virus detection based on ALT detection results and follow up service are recommended.