Seroprevalence of Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Demographic Correlates Among Immigrants in Al-Jabal Al-Akhdar, Eastern Libya: A Cross-Sectional Laboratory-Based Study

Abstract

Background: Migration through North Africa has increased in recent years, exposing immigrants to unstable living conditions, limited healthcare, and inconsistent infectious disease screening. These factors increase the risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. This study assessed HCV seroprevalence and demographic correlates among immigrants in eastern Libya. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to October 2025. Serum samples from 402 immigrants attending laboratories affiliated with the Illegal Immigration Control Agency in Al Bayda, Shahat, and Massa were tested for anti-HCV antibodies using rapid immunochromatographic assays. Demographic data, including age, gender, nationality, and location, were collected. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Welch two-sample t-tests were performed in R. Results: Overall, 302 participants (75.1%) were HCV seropositive. The majority were male (92.3%), with a mean age of 35.44 ± 13.98 years. Egyptians comprised 79.9% of participants. HCV positivity was significantly associated with male gender (χ² = 35.56, p < 0.001), Egyptian nationality (χ² = 96.83, p < 0.001), and older age (mean 40.18 vs 33.24 years; t = –2.702, p = 0.008). Conclusion: HCV seroprevalence among immigrants in eastern Libya is alarmingly high. Male gender, older age, and Egyptian nationality are key risk factors. Targeted screening, confirmatory testing, and access to treatment are urgently required.