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Prophylaxis against hepatitis A for travel.
P Moore1, P Oakeshott, J Logan
1Mawbey Brough Health, Centre, London.
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.)
|March 17, 1990
Summary
Travelers seeking hepatitis A (HAV) prophylaxis should be assessed for risk factors. Those without risk factors can receive human normal immunoglobulin without screening, while others need HAV antibody testing before immunization.
Area of Science:
- Travel medicine
- Infectious disease epidemiology
- Immunoprophylaxis
Background:
- Hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection poses a risk to international travelers.
- Developing a targeted prophylaxis strategy is crucial for effective prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a rational practice policy for hepatitis A prophylaxis in travelers.
- To identify risk factors for HAV exposure and guide immunization decisions.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 104 patients seeking HAV prophylaxis over 18 months.
- Risk factor assessment and HAV antibody screening were performed.
- Patients were categorized based on predicted immunity from risk factors.
Main Results:
- 47 out of 52 patients (90%) with no risk factors were susceptible to HAV.
- All 27 patients with major risk factors (e.g., upbringing in endemic area) were immune.
- 12 out of 25 patients (48%) with minor risk factors showed immunity (p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- Risk factor assessment is essential for all travelers seeking HAV prophylaxis.
- Patients without risk factors can be immunized with human normal immunoglobulin without prior screening.
- Susceptible individuals, identified through antibody testing, should receive immunization.