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Viral hepatitis prevention by immunization.
Cristina Targa Ferreira1, Themis Reverbel da Silveira
1Hospital de Clinicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil. cristinatarga@terra.com.br
Jornal De Pediatria
|July 11, 2006
Summary
Despite available vaccines, viral hepatitis A and B remain significant public health challenges. Increased physician encouragement for vaccination is crucial to reduce preventable infections.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Immunology
- Public Health
Background:
- Viral hepatitis A and B cause significant global morbidity and mortality, leading to acute and chronic liver disease.
- Despite the availability of highly effective vaccines, these viral hepatitis infections remain commonly reported and preventable diseases worldwide.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated review and critical analysis of immunization strategies for preventing viral hepatitis A and B.
- To enhance knowledge and promote the practice of preventing these infectious diseases through vaccination.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive review of medical literature was conducted using the MEDLINE database, focusing on articles published between 2000 and 2006.
- Information was supplemented by researching official websites of major health organizations, including the CDC, AAP, Brazilian Society of Pediatrics, and Brazilian Ministry of Health.
Main Results:
- Viral hepatitis prevention presents a substantial challenge to global public health systems and the scientific community.
- Highly effective vaccines exist for hepatitis A and B, yet these diseases persist as frequently notified, vaccine-preventable illnesses.
- Discussion focuses on current vaccines to expand understanding and improve the application of preventive measures.
Conclusions:
- Vaccines for hepatitis A and B are recommended for diverse risk groups, but vaccine coverage remains suboptimal.
- Numerous opportunities for vaccination are missed, contributing to the continued incidence of these preventable diseases.
- Physician advocacy for vaccination is essential to decrease the occurrence of hepatitis A and B.