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Intrafamilial clustering of hepatitis A
A Roumeliotou1, A Papachristopoulos, D Alexiou
1Athens School of Public Health, Greece.
Infection
|March 1, 1994
Summary
Hepatitis A virus (HAV) spread within families is common, especially in households with low immunity. Immunoglobulin prophylaxis is recommended for all susceptible family members, including adults, in low-prevalence areas.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Hepatitis A virus (HAV) infections can cluster within families.
- Understanding intrafamilial transmission is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the intrafamilial clustering of hepatitis A virus infections.
- To determine the attack rate of HAV in susceptible family members.
- To identify factors influencing HAV spread within households.
Main Methods:
- Studied 403 family members of 113 children with acute hepatitis A.
- Collected epidemiological data and serum samples within one week of admittance.
- Used enzyme-immunoassays to detect recent or past HAV infections.
Main Results:
- The HAV attack rate was similar among susceptible fathers (16.6%), mothers (23.5%), and siblings (18.1%).
- Higher attack rates were observed in families with lower pre-existing immunity levels.
- Social class did not significantly influence the spread of HAV within families.
Conclusions:
- Intrafamilial spread of hepatitis A is significant, particularly in families with low immunity.
- Immunoglobulin prophylaxis should be extended to all susceptible family members, including adults, in areas with low adult anti-HAV prevalence.
- Early intervention with immunoglobulin can prevent further transmission within households.