Control of HBV and HDV infection in an isolated Pacific Island: 1. Pattern of infection

J Med Virol. 1989 Sep;29(1):13-9. doi: 10.1002/jmv.1890290104.

Abstract

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis delta virus (HDV) infections are known to be hyperendemic in Nauru. Because of the consequences of chronic HBV infection, the Nauruan Government has commenced a program that aims to reduce and eventually eliminate hepatitis B infection by immunizing susceptible adults and children on the island and every newborn baby. At the outset of this program, a national seroepidemiological survey was undertaken. Eighty-eight percent of the population were tested, of whom 69.1% had markers of HBV infection. Evidence of superinfection with HDV was found in 22.7% of HBV carriers, with the highest prevalence in adolescents and young adults. All seronegative individuals were offered three doses of plasma derived hepatitis B vaccine. A post-vaccination survey of 64% of those vaccinated showed that 98% had developed circulating antibodies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Hepatitis B / epidemiology
  • Hepatitis B / prevention & control*
  • Hepatitis D / epidemiology
  • Hepatitis D / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pacific Islands / epidemiology
  • Seroepidemiologic Studies
  • Sex Factors
  • Viral Hepatitis Vaccines*

Substances

  • Viral Hepatitis Vaccines