Viral hepatitis A - seroprevalence and vaccine coverage rate in the South Moravian Region

To map the current seroprevalence of antibodies and vaccine coverage against viral hepatitis A (VHA) in the general population of the South Moravian Region (SMR).

During the VHA outbreak in 2016, nearly 3500 persons were investigated epidemiologically by the Regional Public Health Authority of the SMR within the anti-epidemic measures. The data collected were, among others, basic personal data and information whether the person has been vaccinated against VHA. For the reportedly vaccinated, the information was checked in the GP records or vaccination card. Those who reported to be unvaccinated were referred for serological testing. For the purposes of this retrospective prevalence study, available data on 3130 persons were analysed. The study population was divided into 10 age groups (0-4 years, 5-9 years, 10-14 years, 15-19 years, 20-24 years, 25-34 years, 35-44 years, 45-54 years, 55-65 years, and 65 years and over). The numbers of vaccinated persons with positive total antibodies and of those who tested negative were determined. The data obtained were statistically analysed using the Microsoft Excel tabular processor.

Of the study cohort of 3130 persons, 659 (21.05 %) turned out to be seropositive, and 320 (10.22 %) of the seropositives were vaccinated. The seroprevalence rates in the age groups over 35 years were increasing with increasing age, being the highest (51.40 %) in those aged 65 years and older. The highest vaccine coverage rates were achieved in the age groups 10-14 years (20.73 %) and 15-19 years (20.77 %).

The seroprevalence rates of antibodies against VHA in the general population of the SMR are very low (21.05 %), being even lower than previously reported. The vaccine coverage rate against VHA is 10.22 %. The results show higher vaccine coverage rates in those born after the vaccine against VHA was implemented. Children show the highest vaccine coverage rates. Adults tend to get vaccinated less often. This fact promotes the risk of infection spread and outbreaks, as recently evidenced by the spread of infection from persons engaging in risky behaviours to the general population of young working-age adults.