Are municipal solid waste collectors at increased risk of Hepatitis A Virus infection? A Greek cross-sectional study

Infez Med. 2016 Dec 1;24(4):299-303.

Abstract

Municipal solid waste collectors are reportedly at risk for Hepatitis A virus infection (HAV) as an occupational hazard. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and possible risk factors of HAV infection among solid waste collectors in a municipality of the broader region of Attica, Greece. A cross-sectional sero-prevalence study was conducted. Fifty (n=50) waste collectors participated in the study (response rate: 95%). The group of municipal waste collectors was compared to a convenient sample of workers not exposed to solid waste (n=83). Municipal solid waste collectors recorded a higher, but not statistically significant, prevalence of anti-HAV(+) in comparison to subjects without occupational exposure to waste (40% vs 34% respectively p=0,4). No significant associations were found between inappropriate work practices and anti- HAV (+). Education was the only factor independently associated with the risk of HAV infection. This study did not corroborate previous reports of an increased prevalence of Hepatitis A Virus infection among municipal solid waste collectors.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cities
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Greece / epidemiology
  • Hepatitis A / blood*
  • Hepatitis A / epidemiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Occupational Diseases / blood*
  • Occupational Diseases / epidemiology*
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Prevalence
  • Risk Factors
  • Seroepidemiologic Studies
  • Sex Distribution
  • Solid Waste / adverse effects*
  • Waste Disposal Facilities / statistics & numerical data

Substances

  • Solid Waste