Prevalence of hepatitis C virus antibodies and associated risks among residents in long-term assisted living facilities and shelters in Latvia.

Aim of the study: This was a retrospective study which aimed to analyse two-year (October 1, 2020 to October 31, 2022) data collected by HIV Prevention Point employees during their routine work and to update hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence among residents of long-term assisted living facilities (LTALF) and shelters in Latvia. Key objectives included investigating risk factors associated with HCV infection and analysing demographic characteristics contributing to prevalence. Material and methods: Retrospective analysis of the screening involved 46 LTALF and 6 shelters, randomly selected from Latvia's social service providers register where HCV rapid plasma immunochromatographic antibody tests were used, as well as demographic and risk-related questions asked to participants. Data were recorded, transferred to Google Sheets, and statistically analysed using SPSS software. Results: Out of 2838 tests in LTALF and 349 in shelters, HCV prevalence was 4.2% and 12.0%, respectively. Risk factors such as intravenous narcotic use, incarceration, and unprotected sex were significantly associated with HCV prevalence in both populations. Males had higher prevalence rates than females, particularly in LTALF. Conclusions: The study revealed an HCV prevalence in LTALF almost twice that of the general population and four times higher in shelters. Those denying prior incarceration or intravenous narcotic use still exhibited higher prevalence rates. Significant risk factors included intravenous narcotic use, prior incarceration and unprotected sex. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions in these high-risk populations and emphasize the importance of tailored prevention, screening, and treatment strategies. The urgency of addressing elevated prevalence rates in LTALF and shelters is underscored, calling for immediate and targeted public health interventions.