HCV infection prevalence in a population recruited at health centers in Jordan

Abstract

Background: Jordan lacks statistical data regarding prevalence of HCV.

Aim: To determine the prevalence of HCV in selected areas of Jordan (north, middle and south of Jordan).

Methods: A random sample of 700 patients attending health centers was used to determine HCV prevalence. ELISA testing was used to determine HCV-Ab positive cases, which were confirmed by PCR testing.

Results and conclusion: The study concluded that the prevalence of HCV infection in the population recruited from different health centers in Jordan is relatively low and estimates a prevalence of 0.42% among all age groups and 0.56% among those aged >15 years old.

Keywords: Epidemiology; HCV infection; Hepatitis C; Jordan; Prevalence.