The Sero-Prevalence of Hepatitis A Virus in Municipal Waste Collectors in Shiraz, South west of Iran, 2018

Introduction and Objectives: Hepatitis A virus is one of the major health issues that is transmitted through the fecal-oral route. The epidemiology in developing countries varies between different populations however, municipal waste collectors (MWCs) may be at higher risk of exposure to HAV. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the seroprevalence of HAV in MWCs at Shiraz. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study seroprevalence, 385 MWCs who are working in ten different municipal areas of Shiraz were included. The demographic data and their risk factors for HAV exposure as well as personnel sanitation southwest in questionnaires. Their blood samples were collected and sera were isolated. Anti-HAV antibody was determined by using Diapro ELISA HAV IgG antibody assay kit. Results: All of the participants were men with a mean age of 41±8 years old. Out of 385 samples, 383 (99.5%) had IgG against HAV. No significant correlation was found between HAV infections and demographics as well as risk factors. Conclusion: The prevalence of anti-HAV IgG antibodies in municipal sweeper is very high and this job may be an occupational risk factor for HAV infection.