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[Viral hepatitis type A. Who should be vaccinated?]
A Albornoz Monque1, R C Presilla, B Ascanio Mujica
1Servicio de Gastroenterología, Hospital Carlos J Bello, Cruz Roja Venezolana, Caracas.
G.E.N
|October 1, 1995
Summary
Hepatitis A virus antibody (HAV ab) prevalence shows bimodal behavior, with higher rates in lower socioeconomic groups. Vaccination strategies should consider socioeconomic status for effective Hepatitis A control.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Immunology
Background:
- Hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection poses a significant public health concern.
- Understanding the prevalence of HAV antibodies (HAV ab) is crucial for targeted vaccination strategies.
- Socioeconomic status is a potential determinant of infectious disease exposure and prevalence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate variations in HAV ab prevalence across different socioeconomic statuses.
- To identify specific populations that would benefit most from Hepatitis A vaccination.
- To inform public health policies for HAV control.
Main Methods:
- Assessed serum HAV ab in 200 patients without occupational risk.
- Classified patients into five socioeconomic status levels (I-V).
- Analyzed positivity rates and performed statistical comparisons between groups.
Main Results:
- HAV ab positivity varied significantly by socioeconomic status.
- Lower socioeconomic groups (Levels IV and V) showed higher prevalence (38-40%).
- Higher socioeconomic groups (Levels II and III) showed lower prevalence (12-18%).
- A statistically significant difference (p < 0.005) was observed between combined lower and higher socioeconomic groups.
Conclusions:
- A bimodal prevalence pattern for HAV ab was identified, with distinct high (78%) and low (30%) prevalence groups.
- Vaccination programs should integrate socioeconomic status assessment for improved efficacy.
- Targeted vaccination can reduce Hepatitis A morbidity and endemicity.