PATTERNS OF VIRAL INFECTION REPORTED AT AL-MADEAN GENERAL HOSPITAL THROUGH ROUTINE ASSESSMENT

Background: The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) continue to be significant global public health challenges. These infections are responsible for a major amount of infection-related morbidity and mortality globally, due to their chronic nature, delayed clinical manifestation, and severe long-term consequences. Objectives: To assess the outcomes of routine viral assessment for HIV, HBV, and HCV among patients at Al-Madean General Hospital during a 16-month period. Methods: The study was a descriptive, hospital based, cross-sectional study carried out during the period from 2^nd of January 2024 till the 30^th of July 2025 at Al-Madaen General hospital. The study population consisted of individuals who referred for viral screening as part of premarital screening, preoperative assessment, and prenatal care. Results: During the study period, a total of 28066 people had routine viral screenings at Al-Madean General Hospital. 6162 (21.9%) were screened as part of premarital testing, and 21904 (78.1%) were screened during preoperative evaluation or antenatal care. Among premarital screening, Hepatitis C virus was the commonest viral infection in 21 (0.34%) patients followed by hepatitis B in 20 (0.32%) patients and Human immunodeficiency virus in 5 (0.08%) patients. While during preoperative and antenatal care, Hepatitis B virus was the commonest viral infection in 11 (0.05%) patients followed by both of hepatitis C and Human immunodeficiency virus in 2 (0.009%) patients. Premarital group showed a statistically significant difference higher prevalence regarding all of the HIV, HBV and HCV. Conclusion:  Routine viral screening at Al-Madean General Hospital found a low overall prevalence of HIV, HBV, and HCV, with premarital screening participants demonstrating significantly higher detection rates.