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Hepatitis A resurgence: time to reconsider routine pediatric immunization
Valeria Delle Cave1, Fabiola Di Dato1, Maria Immacolata Spagnuolo1
1Department of Translational Medical Science, Section of Pediatrics, University of Naples Federico II Naples, Italy.
Summary
Hepatitis A virus (HAV) resurgence in Europe necessitates pediatric vaccination. Early childhood immunization offers lifelong protection, reducing severe illness, hospitalizations, and societal costs associated with this vaccine-preventable disease.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection is resurging in Europe, particularly in pediatric populations.
- While often mild in children, HAV can lead to severe complications like acute liver failure and death.
- Relapsing HAV cases increase healthcare costs due to prolonged hospitalizations and indirect societal costs from lost parental workdays.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the growing concern of HAV resurgence in Europe.
- To advocate for the integration of HAV vaccination into routine European pediatric schedules.
- To emphasize the long-term benefits of early childhood vaccination for lifelong protection.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data on HAV resurgence in Europe.
- Analysis of the clinical and economic burden of HAV infection.
- Evaluation of the effectiveness of universal pediatric vaccination mandates, citing the US experience.
- Assessment of co-administration strategies for HAV vaccine integration.
Main Results:
- HAV resurgence and pediatric outbreaks are increasing in Europe.
- Universal pediatric vaccination in the US significantly reduced HAV incidence.
- Vaccination provides long-lasting protection into adulthood, including for high-risk groups.
Conclusions:
- Integrating the safe and cost-effective HAV vaccine into routine European schedules is crucial.
- Co-administration optimizes delivery, improves adherence, and can eradicate this vaccine-preventable disease.
- Early childhood vaccination ensures lifelong immunity, protecting individuals and communities.
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