Risks of hepatitis B for travellers.
Retrospective and follow-up studies in travellers visiting developing countries suggest that 1 in 2500 develops symptomatic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection after returning home. Vacationers are rarely affected. In contrast, persons working in developing countries frequently seroconvert. Hepatitis B vaccination is therefore indicated for all persons residing for a prolonged period of time in developing countries, particularly medical personnel, missionaries, or others having close contact with the autochthonous population. This immunization is usually unnecessary for vacationers, unless they intend to break basic rules of hygiene.
Steffen
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Division of Epidemiology and Prevention of Communicable Diseases, Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, Zurich, Switzerland.
D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012306:Risk; D014195:Travel