[Gammaglobulin prophylaxis of infectious hepatitis (author's transl)]

When travelling in tropical areas and developing countries with deficient hygienic conditions, a distinctly greater risk of disease is observed with regard to infectious hepatitis. A prophylactic injection of gammaglobulin (5 ml i.m. for adults) for protection against diseases was found to be effective and expedient. A satisfactory protection can be assumed for a period of up to 4 months; after that, the prophylactic injection of gammaglobulin must be repeated in the same dosage, if there is a further risk of infection. It is strongly recommended that the prophylaxis be carried out at least for the first year of exposure to the risk, while later a gradual immunity possibly develops. Children should receive a reduced dose according to age.