Hepatitis B, tropical ulcers, and immunisation strategy in Kiribati.
AUTOR(ES)
Tibbs, C J
RESUMO
The seroepidemiology of hepatitis B was studied in Kiribati (formerly the Gilbert Islands). Six hundred and two (98%) of the population studied showed evidence of current or previous infection. The prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen was 31% (188/615) and of the e antigen was 9% (58/615). Infection was acquired early in life, and the prevalence of both antigens declined with age. The rates of infection were similar in all age groups examined (0-70) including early childhood. Both hepatitis B surface antigen and e antigen were detected in exudates from tropical ulcers, which may be a source of environmental hepatitis B. Concordance of antigen presence was higher in pairs of siblings than in mother-child pairs. All Gilbertese children should receive hepatitis B vaccine at birth or soon after if the long term consequences of hepatitis B infection are to be minimised.
ACESSO AO ARTIGO
http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1245576Documentos Relacionados
- Preventing and treating hepatitis B infection: Immunisation is most important strategy to control hepatitis B
- Malignancy in scars, chronic ulcers, and sinuses
- Targeted hepatitis B vaccination--a cost effective immunisation strategy for the UK?
- Occupational and non-occupational hepatitis B virus infection among hospital employees in Jerusalem: a basis for immunisation strategy.
- Time for action on hepatitis B immunisation.
