Seroprevalence of Transfusion-transmissible Infections Among Blood Donors at the THIES Regional Hospital Blood Bank, Senegal (January–June 2024)

Background: Blood transfusion is an essential life-saving therapy but remains associated with a risk of transmitting infectious agents. In sub-Saharan Africa, transfusion-transmissible infections (TTI) such as HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and syphilis continue to pose a major challenge to blood safety. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of TTI among blood donors at the THIES Regional Hospital Blood Bank, Senegal. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2024 among 2,599 blood donors aged 18–65 years. Serological screening for HIV, HBV (HBsAg), HCV, and syphilis was performed using validated rapid immunochromatographic tests. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected and analyzed using R software. Results: The overall prevalence of TTI was 7.9%. HBV was the most prevalent infection (7.1%), followed by syphilis (0.4%), HIV (0.2%), and HCV (0.2%). One case of HIV/syphilis co-infection was identified. Male sex and replacement or family donor status were significantly associated with HBsAg positivity (p < 0.05). HIV seropositivity was significantly associated with first-time donor status (p = 0.005). Conclusion: Despite the low prevalence of HIV and HCV, the high burden of hepatitis B highlights the need for strengthened donor selection, vaccination strategies, and improved screening practices. Continuous surveillance remains essential to ensure transfusion safety in Senegal.