Prevalence of hepatitis A virus infection among municipal solid-waste workers

A study was conducted among 151 municipal workers (72 solid-waste workers, and 79 workers not exposed to waste). Total antibodies against Hepatitis A virus (HAV) were measured, and socio-demographic information was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Univariate analysis has shown that occupational exposure to waste, age, duration of employment and educational status were significantly associated with the prevalence of anti-HAV(+). Municipal Solid Waste Workers had a higher prevalence of anti-HAV(+) in comparison with municipal workers not exposed to waste. Duration of employment was significantly associated anti-HAV(+). Multivariate analysis revealed an independent association of anti-HAV(+) with occupational exposure to waste and ageing. Our results suggest a potential causal role of occupational exposure to waste, in the development of HAV infection.