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HBsAg carrier rate among institutionalised children from Phyathai Institute
Insights
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) spreads more easily among institutionalized children, with higher HBsAg carrier rates. This suggests non-parental transmission, highlighting the need for hepatitis B vaccination in these vulnerable populations.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) poses a significant global health challenge.
- Understanding transmission routes is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
- Institutionalized populations may be at higher risk due to close contact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the evidence for horizontal transmission of HBV in institutionalized children.
- To compare Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carrier rates between institutionalized children and those attending a well-baby clinic.
- To assess the impact of age and duration of stay on HBsAg carriage.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study design was employed.
- HBsAg carrier rates were determined in institutionalized children and a control group from a well-baby clinic.
- Follow-up assessments were conducted over one year.
Main Results:
- HBsAg was detected four times more frequently in institutionalized children compared to the control group.
- HBsAg carrier rates increased with age and length of stay in the institution.
- A 35% increase in HBsAg carrier rate was observed in the same group of institutionalized children after one year.
Conclusions:
- The findings support the hypothesis of non-parenteral, horizontal transmission of HBV in institutional settings.
- Increased HBsAg carriage rates underscore the risk of HBV transmission in these environments.
- Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for institutionalized children to prevent transmission.
Abstract:
To identify the evidence supporting the horizontal transmission of hepatitis B virus, HBsAg carrier rate among institutionalised children is determined and compared to children of the same age-group from the well baby clinic, Ramathibodi hospital. The results of this study show that HBsAg is detected four times more frequently in institutionalised children than in children from a well baby clinic. The chance of becoming an HBsAg carrier increases with age and duration of stay in the institution. Repeated study one year later shows that the HBsAg carrier rate among the same group of institutionalised children had increased by 35 per cent. The evidence supports the hypothesis that hepatitis B virus can be transmitted nonparenterally. To prevent this mode of transmission in both institutions and the community, hepatitis B vaccine should be given to these children.