[Active immunoprophylaxis of type B viral hepatitis. Evaluation of the effectiveness of HEVAC-B vaccine in a population at risk]

Abstract

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the commonest cause of liver disease world-wide, with an estimated 200 million chronically infected individuals. The prevalence of HBV is particularly high in parts of Africa, Far East and South-East Asia. The worldwide distribution of HBV infection with the consequence of chronic liver disease and primary hepatocellular carcinoma implies the need for an efficient and safe vaccine. Three vaccines are today available: HB-VAX (M.S.D.), HEVAC-B (Ist. Pasteur, Paris) and Engerix-B (Smith-Kline Biological) and the first international experience proves that they are harmless, immunogenic and protective. The possibility of eliminating hepatitis B depends on mass vaccination in the high carrier areas of the third world and this in turn depends on supplies of inexpensive vaccine. The present work reports results obtained in Italy in 16 volunteers with high risk, who received HEVAC-B vaccine. Blood samples of the subjects were also tested for HBSAg/IgM complexes.