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Hepatitis B virus infection in Chinese families in Hong Kong
Insights
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) spreads significantly within Chinese families, particularly from mothers to children. Vaccination is crucial for family members, especially newborns, to prevent hepatitis B infection.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a significant global health concern.
- Understanding transmission dynamics within families is key to controlling HBV spread.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of hepatitis B virus markers among family members of HBsAg carriers.
- To identify the primary modes of HBV transmission within Chinese families.
Main Methods:
- Screening of 731 family members from 240 hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers for HBV markers.
- Analysis of carrier rates based on familial relationships and maternal status.
Main Results:
- A high prevalence of HBsAg (28.3%) and antibodies (43.1%) was observed in family members.
- Maternal transmission was identified as the most significant route of HBV spread.
- Higher carrier rates were noted in siblings and offspring of female carriers.
Conclusions:
- Intrafamilial transmission plays a critical role in the persistence of HBV infection among Chinese populations.
- Targeted vaccination of susceptible family members, especially infants of carrier mothers, is recommended to curb HBV spread.
Abstract:
Between January 1983 and July 1984, 731 family members of 240 hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers were screened for hepatitis B virus markers. The percentage of those who were positive for HBsAg was 28.3 and that for antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen/antibody to hepatitis B core antigen was 43.1. The carrier rate was higher among siblings (53%) and offspring (50.5%) of female carriers, but similar to that of the age-matched general population for spouses (10.8%). Maternal transmission was the most important mode of spread of hepatitis B virus infection within the family. The HBsAg-positive offspring and siblings were clustered within certain families. Intrafamilial spread is important in perpetuating hepatitis B virus infection in Chinese persons. Susceptible family members, especially newborns and other young children of female carriers, should be vaccinated.