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A modified immunisation schedule for the hepatitis B vaccine Recombivax HB suitable for mass vaccination in childhood

M Piazza1, N Abrescia, L Picciotto

  • 1Clinica delle Malattie Infettive, Università di Napoli.

Bollettino Della Societa Italiana Di Biologia Sperimentale
|February 1, 1991
PubMed

Insights

This study shows that Recombivax HB, a hepatitis B vaccine, is highly effective when given alongside routine childhood immunizations. This allows for integrated vaccination schedules in infants, supporting mass vaccination campaigns.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Vaccinology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Hepatitis B vaccination protocols are crucial for preventing infection.
  • Previous studies confirmed the immunogenicity of Hevac B Pasteur, H-B-VAX, and Engerix B vaccines when co-administered with routine childhood immunizations in Italy.
  • A DNA-recombinant hepatitis B vaccine, Recombivax HB, was recently introduced in Italy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the immunogenicity of the Recombivax HB vaccine when administered on a schedule compatible with mandatory Italian childhood vaccinations.
  • To determine if Recombivax HB can be integrated into existing infant immunization programs.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of infants received two doses of Recombivax HB at three and five months of age.
  • Immunogenicity was assessed by measuring seroconversion rates and mean anti-HBs titres.
  • The vaccination schedule was designed to align with mandatory diphtheria, tetanus, and polio vaccinations.

Main Results:

  • Two doses of Recombivax HB resulted in a 100% seroconversion rate.
  • The mean anti-HBs titre achieved was 440 mUI/ml.
  • These results suggest high immunogenicity, supporting a complete three-dose schedule.

Conclusions:

  • Recombivax HB demonstrates excellent immunogenicity in infants when administered concurrently with routine childhood vaccinations.
  • The vaccine is suitable for inclusion in mass vaccination campaigns for infants in Italy.
  • This integrated approach facilitates efficient hepatitis B prevention, as exemplified by the first European mass vaccination campaign initiated in an hyperendemic area.

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