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Immunity to hepatitis B vaccine in Tanzanian under-5 children

J Metodi1, S Aboud, R Mpembeni

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Muhimbili University of Health & Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Annals of Tropical Paediatrics
|June 5, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Most children under 5 in Tanzania achieved protective hepatitis B immunity with the DPT-hepatitis B vaccine. A birth dose could further enhance hepatitis B immunity in children.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Vaccinology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Hepatitis B vaccination was implemented in Tanzania in 2002.
  • The DPT-hepatitis B vaccine is administered at 4, 8, and 12 weeks of life.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess hepatitis B virus immunity in children younger than 5 years.
  • Evaluate vaccine effectiveness in children attending reproductive and child health (RCH) clinics.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study was conducted in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
  • Blood samples from 296 children under 5 vaccinated with DPT-HB were analyzed for hepatitis B surface antigen (HB(s)Ag) and antibodies (anti-HB(s), Anti-HB(c)).
  • Protective immunity was defined as anti-HB(s) levels ≥10 mIU/ml.

Main Results:

  • 69.3% of vaccinated children had protective anti-HB(s) levels.
  • Vaccine dose number, time since last dose, and HIV status significantly predicted antibody levels.
  • 1.7% of children tested positive for HB(s)Ag, indicating potential vertical transmission.

Conclusions:

  • Over two-thirds of children under 5 demonstrated protective immunity against hepatitis B.
  • Modifying the immunization schedule to include an early birth dose could bolster hepatitis B immunity.
Abstract

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