Toward universal vaccination against hepatitis B virus

Article Abstract:

Hepatitis B is a virus which may lead to permanent liver damage and death. Although there is a vaccine available, the incidence of the disease may actually have increased in the last few years. The reasons why the vaccine has not decreased the number of hepatitis B infections are that many injections given over a period of time are needed, infected persons are hard to find, some think the vaccine is unsafe, and the vaccine's high cost. The vaccine is currently given to people in the US found to be at risk, such as homosexuals, heterosexuals having many sexual partners, intravenous drug users, healthcare workers and family members of hepatitis B carriers. In the November 9, 1989 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, Franks et al. describe the transmission of hepatitis B infections in a group of Southeast Asian immigrants, even though the vaccine was widely available. Many countries are now considering universal vaccination of all infants as well as some entire groups of high-risk populations. In the US, the incidence of hepatitis B infection is relatively low compared to many developing countries. However, the groups that are infected are difficult to vaccinate and even in accessible groups, such as healthcare workers, the vaccination program has had little success. Universal vaccination in this country is unlikely due to the high cost involved ($120 for three injections). The author agrees with Franks that the universal vaccination of all Southeast Asian refugees is necessary. Universal vaccination in the US may be eventually considered.

United States, Usage, Vaccination, Disease transmission, Hepatitis B, Refugees, Hepatitis B vaccine, Hepatitis B vaccines, editorial

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Therapy for acute hepatitis C

Article Abstract:

Interferon alpha can suppress the hepatitis C virus in people who have recently been exposed to the virus and may therefore prevent chronic hepatitis C infection. However, interferon alpha is expensive and has many side effects. Many people will recover without treatment and chronic hepatitis C can be relatively benign.

Editorial

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Treatment of acute hepatitis C with interferon alfa-2b

Article Abstract:

Interferon alpha-2b can suppress the hepatitis C virus and prevent chronic hepatitis C infection in people who are exposed to the virus. This was the conclusion of a study of 44 patients who had recently been exposed to the virus via sex, drug use, a medical procedure, or a needle-stick injury.

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