Community pharmacists role on Hepatitis B immunization in Nigeria

Abstract Background The roles of pharmacists have changed in recent times, with pharmacists advancing public health through immunization. Objective This study aimed to evaluate community pharmacists’ knowledge, attitude and role in Hepatitis B immunization in Nigeria. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 49 registered community pharmacists in Anambra state. Convenience sampling technique was employed. A structured questionnaire was adapted as instrument for data collection. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23 and summarized using descriptive statistics: frequency, percentage, and mean. Scores obtained were compared using ANOVA and Independent Student’s t-test. The relationship between the sociodemographic characteristics of the respondents and their role in Hepatitis B vaccination was assessed using the Chi-square test. Statistical significance was established at p < 0.05. Results More females, 31 (63.3%), than males participated in the study. Majority of the pharmacists 46 (93.3%), had B.Pharm. as highest qualification, while 40 (81.6%) were within the first five years of practice. Forty-five (91.8%) respondents stated that asymptomatic people can infect others while 26(53.1%) respondents have not been tested for Hepatitis B infection. Although 45 (91.8%) pharmacists provide immunization services in their pharmacies, only one (2%) pharmacist administer Hepatitis B vaccine to clients. Community pharmacists’ provision of immunization services and their role in Hepatitis B immunization had no statistically significant relationship with their sociodemographic characteristics. Conclusion The community pharmacists had good knowledge but suboptimal attitude to Hepatitis B immunization. Their role involved educating clients on Hepatitis B immunization. Adequate efforts should be made to empower community pharmacists in other areas.