Prevalence study on transfusion transmitted virus (TTV) infection in general population of Shenzhen

Objective To explore the prevalence of transfusion transmitted virus (TTV) infection and its risk factors among the general population in Shenzhen. Methods Based on the multi-stage sampling,320 subjects were selected randomly and tested for TTV DNA in sera using a nested polymerase chain reaction (nPCR). Results The prevalence rate of TTV DNA was 11.86 % in the population ( 14.67 % for male and 9.41 % for female,respectively). There was no significant difference between males and females, nor with different age groups. The histories of hepatitis, surgical dental operations and injections were not associated with TTV DNA infection. Hepatitis B vaccination and positivity of HBsAg,anti-HBs and anti-HBc antibodies were not related to TTV DNA prevalence rate. However,the significant differences were found in the prevalence rates of various professional groups. It was higher in tax collectors and teachers of primary and middle schools as compared with other professional groups. Conclusion The prevalence of TTV DNA seemed to be high among the general population in Shenzhen,especially in tax collectors and teachers of primary and middle schools. The risk factors of TTV infection in the population need to be further studied.