Prevalence of viral hepatitis B and C in Sierra Leone—current knowledge and knowledge gaps: a narrative review

There are no comprehensive data on viral hepatitis from Sierra Leone; however, a huge disease burden has been observed in different subpopulations. This review summarizes available data on hepatitis B and C virus (HBV and HCV) prevalence in Sierra Leone and identifies knowledge gaps. Despite the non-uniformity of the studies and the lack of systematic case recording, different reports published in recent decades yielded a hepatitis B prevalence of 8.7% among healthcare workers, 11.3% among pregnant women, 15.2% among blood donors and 16.7% in school-age children. The actual HBV prevalence in the general population was reported as 21.7%; similar to what was reported for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV). HCV prevalence is 8% and 7% in male and female blood donors, respectively, 4.1% in PLHIV and 2.0% in school children. There are significant knowledge gaps regarding the prevalence of viral hepatitis B and C in Sierra Leone, despite the high burden reported in a few studies. There are limited programmatic interventions on the control and prevention of viral hepatitis in the country. Therefore, well-structured representative studies should provide a solid understanding of the true prevalence of hepatitis B and C to inform best possible public health measures in Sierra Leone.