Prevalence of Transfusion-Transmitted Viruses Among Blood Donors at a Major Hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (2019–2024)

Objectives To assess the prevalence, temporal trends, and diagnostic concordance of transfusion-transmitted viruses (TTVs) using combined serological and nucleic acid testing (NAT) in a large donor population in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Methods This retrospective study analysed all blood donations screened from 2019 to 2024 at King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital, using serological assays and NAT. Prevalence estimates were calculated with 95% confidence intervals. Temporal trends were evaluated using generalised estimating equations logistic regression. Multivariable logistic regression identified predictors of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) positivity. Diagnostic agreement between serology and NAT was assessed using Cohen’s kappa statistic. Results Among 48,151 donors, seroprevalence was 0.4% for HBsAg, 0.3% for HCV Ab, 0.1% for HIV Ab, and 0.02% for HTLV Ab. HBc Ab was detected in 4.7%. NAT identified HBV and HCV in 0.2% and 0.1%, respectively. Logistic regression showed a significant annual decline in HBsAg and NAT-HBV. Older age and non-Saudi nationality were linked to higher HBsAg and HCV positivity. Concordance between serology and NAT was substantial for HIV but negligible for HBV and HCV. Conclusions TTVs rates are low and declining, but HBV/HCV concordance underscores the need for continued dual testing to ensure transfusion safety.