Hepatitis c virus antibodies in mother-infant blood pair in Zaria

Objectives : To determine the prevalence of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies in mother-infant pair, and risk factors for vertical transmission of HCV in ABUTH Zaria. Method : One hundred motherinfant pair had serological determination for HCV antibodies from birth to 28days and a repeat at 6weeks after delivery. HIV antibody test and serum alanine transaminase level estimation were done for the mothers at the time of enrolment. Data including mothers’ demography, pregnancy and delivery history, relevant past medical history as well as physical examination of all babies were obtained and entered into a proforma designed by the researcher. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 15.0. Results : Prevalence of HCV antibodies was 5% and 6.8% in mothers and babies respectively at enrolment, while vertical transmission occurred in 60%. Five (5%) mothers had raised serum alanine transaminase. There was no new infection during the follow up period. There was no statistical significance between multiple sexual partners, history of prior blood transfusion, and or jaundice and maternal HCV infection. Conclusion : This study has been able to establish Mother to Child Transmission (MTCT) of HCV in our community (Zaria), This is of public health significance. The findings of this study further corroborate the need for more public enlightenment on routes of transmission and prevention of HCV infection .It is thus recommended to institute screening of antenatal care attendees and women of reproductive age.