An Evaluation of Hepatitis A Seroprevalence and Vaccination Status in Patients with HIV/AIDS: Data from A 20-year Period

Introduction:Hepatitis A infection, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), is a non-chronic disease that can be prevented with vaccination. It is a significant cause of morbidity in adults. Homosexually active males, drug users, the homeless, and prisoners are at a greater risk of HAV infection. This study aimed to determine the hepatitis A seroprevalence and vaccination rates of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) followed up in our clinic.Methods:A retrospective examination was made of the polyclinic files and laboratory test results in the hospital information system of 1,326 patients aged >18 years, who were diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and followed up in the Infectious Diseases Polyclinic of University of Health Sciences Turkey, Haseki Training and Research Hospital between September 30, 2002 and September 30, 2022.Results:Anti-HAV immunoglobulin G (IgG) positivity was present in 1090 (82.2%) patients. As age increased, anti-HAV IgG positivity also increased, females were significantly more affected, no difference was determined between nationalities, and there was seen to be a significant decrease in the positivity rate over the time period of the study. The positivity rate was determined to be significantly high in heterosexual patients. The hepatitis A vaccination rate was determined to be 16.9%, and serology was examined in 60% of the patients after vaccination. The response to vaccination was determined to be 91.6% in the patients with serology examination.Conclusion:Although improvements in sanitation and vaccination in childhood have provided a decrease in HAV seropositivity, the key populations must be informed about vaccination and vaccination adherence is ensured to prevent small outbreaks