Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B virus by launching an antenatal screening facility and viral load testing in North-Eastern Uganda

Summary

Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) is a major route for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in Uganda. The risk of developing chronic hepatitis, subsequent liver fibrosis and/or hepatocellular carcinoma is higher in MTCT compared to horizontal transmission acquired later in life. Interruption of early transmission is essential to break the cycle of ongoing HBV infection. As there is no funding by GAVI for birth-dose hepatitis B vaccines in Uganda, focus on administration of antiviral treatment from the late second or early third trimester of pregnancy to reduce maternal HBV viral load is key to prevent MTCT. Although being the cornerstone in the management of HBV, HBV DNA quantification in Uganda is hampered by the limited availability of q-PCR machines. In this project, we will set-up a unit for HBV screening and viral load testing by q-PCR in Lira, North-Eastern Uganda, to reduce the burden of HBV caused by MTCT. We also strive to increase awareness and reduce the social stigma on HBV among pregnant women and health care workers.

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