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Tourist hepatitis and gamma globulin prophylaxis.
Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases
|January 1, 1976
Summary
Millions of Northern European tourists travel to the Mediterranean annually. Gamma globulin prophylaxis significantly reduces the risk of contracting hepatitis A (HAV), making the risk almost negligible for travelers.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Travel Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hepatitis A (HAV) is a significant concern for travelers to the Mediterranean basin.
- Northern European tourists frequently visit the region, with a notable percentage seeking prophylaxis.
- Gamma globulin injections are a common preventive measure against HAV.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the risk of hepatitis A infection for travelers from Northern Europe visiting the Mediterranean.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of gamma globulin prophylaxis in mitigating hepatitis A risk.
Main Methods:
- Calculations based on reported travel and prophylaxis rates.
- Risk assessment for travelers with and without gamma globulin prophylaxis.
Main Results:
- The risk of contracting hepatitis A in Southern or Eastern Europe without prophylaxis is estimated at approximately 1 in 3000 travelers.
- With gamma globulin prophylaxis, the risk of hepatitis A infection is reduced to a negligible level.
Conclusions:
- Hepatitis A prophylaxis is highly effective in protecting Northern European tourists visiting the Mediterranean.
- The widespread use of gamma globulin among Swedish tourists highlights the perceived importance of HAV prevention.