Abstract

Objective: To access awareness of hepatitis B and its vaccination among patients of hepatitis C and their family members.
Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Fauji Foundation Hospital over a period of 6 months. The number of participants was 350 which was calculated using the OpenAI calculator were asked to fill a self-made questionnaire after their consent.
Results: The average age of the participants was 47 years. It was believed that 63.4% of the participants that chronic hepatitis B was transmitted in the same manner as chronic hepatitis C. The participants believed that HBV was transmitted by blood (49.4%), transmitted from mother to newborn (69.7%), transmitted by sharing plates and drinking glasses (79.4%) and by coughing (87.4%).91.1% had heard about hepatitis B vaccination and believed that it was effective in preventing hepatitis. None of the participants knew about the exact number of vaccine dose required. It was known by 29.4% of the participants that newborns can be given hepatitis B vaccinations. 58.9% received vaccinations.
Conclusion: Hepatitis B is a preventable infectious disease. Hepatitis B vaccination is affordable and effective. The lack of knowledge regarding hepatitis B vaccination is an important factor regarding spread of hepatitis B.

Key words: Hepatitis B and C, vaccination, knowledge, awareness, transmission, prevention.