Knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards hepatitis B infection among pharmacy students: A cross-sectional study in Jordan

Background: Hepatitis B infection is a potentially fatal liver illness caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). In recent years, the Centres for Disease Control have recognised pharmacists as immunisation providers and potential educators for patients and their families on the importance of vaccination and the best drug use. This study aimed to evaluate Jordanian pharmacy students’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards HBV infection. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 626 Jordanian pharmacy students to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Results: Of the 626 respondents, 19.8% were males and 81% were females. Students were mostly knowledgeable about disease transmission, and a substantial percentage were aware of the importance of vaccination in preventing it. Females, fifth-year students, and those who encountered infected patients have shown significantly better knowledge of HBV. Conclusion: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards HBV infection among pharmacy students in Jordan are unsatisfactory. More effort should be made to raise awareness among future pharmacy students and explore other factors associated with these low levels of awareness.