SEROPREVALENCE OF HIV, HBV & HCV IN HIGH RISK GROUPS

Aim: The present study is to know the seroprevalence of HIV, HBV, HCV in "high risk groups” i.e STD patients, hemophiliacs and patients undergoing repeated dialysis, voluntary blood donors and also the incidence of co - infections. Materials and Methods: A serological screening was carried out during the period November 20005 to September 2007 to assess the risk of infection with HIV and co infection with HBV, HCV at Siddhartha Medical College, Vijayawada. A total of 200 samples coll ected and were tested by ELISA with commercial test kits which were commonly used for HIV, HBV, HCV. Results: Among the 200 samples serological reactivity was detected for HIV in 13(15.5%), HBV in 16(8%), HCV in 18(9%). All the three viruses shown more inc idence in STD patients . Co infection with all the three viruses was noted in 3 cases out of 200 cases, which happened to be from STD O.P. 7cases out of 200 cases were positive for HIV and HCV of which all 7 were STD patients. 4 patients from STD group wer e positive for both HIV and HBV. Conclusion: Screening procedures for hepatotropic viruses and HIV should be made mandatory. Health education to people about Safe Sexual practices and awareness about these viruses