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Low-dose intramuscular revaccination against hepatitis B
1Preventive Medicine Department, Ciudad Sanitaria de Bellvitge, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
Vaccine
|December 1, 1996
Summary
Low intramuscular doses of hepatitis B vaccine boosters are effective and safe for adults. A 2-microgram intramuscular booster dose provides an immune response comparable to the standard 20-microgram dose, with fewer adverse reactions.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Limited research exists on low-dose hepatitis B vaccine boosters in adults.
- Previous intradermal (i.d.) low-dose revaccination resulted in high adverse reaction rates.
- Standard hepatitis B vaccine revaccination uses 20 micrograms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy and safety of a low intramuscular (i.m.) dose of recombinant hepatitis B vaccine with the standard 20-microgram dose for revaccination.
- To evaluate antibody response and adverse reactions in hospital workers receiving different booster doses.
Main Methods:
- 122 hospital workers, vaccinated 5 years prior, were randomized into two groups.
- Study group received a 2-microgram i.m. booster dose (0.1 ml).
- Control group received a 20-microgram i.m. booster dose (1.0 ml).
Main Results:
- The 2-microgram i.m. dose was as effective as the 20-microgram i.m. dose in inducing antibody response.
- Antibody decrease post-revaccination was similar between groups (P > 0.05).
- Low i.m. doses showed fewer adverse reactions compared to previous low i.d. doses.
Conclusions:
- Low intramuscular booster doses (2 micrograms) are effective for revaccination in individuals with adequate initial anti-HBs titres (≥10 mIU/ml).
- This approach offers a rapid anamestic response comparable to standard revaccination.
- Low i.m. doses represent a potentially effective, less expensive, and safer alternative for high-risk populations.