title: Hepatitis B, tropical ulcers, and immunisation strategy in Kiribati.
abstract: The seroepidemiology of hepatitis B was studied in Kiribati (formerly the Gilbert Islands). Six hundred and two (98%) of the population studied showed evidence of current or previous infection. The prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen was 31% (188/615) and of the e antigen was 9% (58/615). Infection was acquired early in life, and the prevalence of both antigens declined with age. The rates of infection were similar in all age groups examined (0-70) including early childhood. Both hepatitis B surface antigen and e antigen were detected in exudates from tropical ulcers, which may be a source of environmental hepatitis B. Concordance of antigen presence was higher in pairs of siblings than in mother-child pairs. All Gilbertese children should receive hepatitis B vaccine at birth or soon after if the long term consequences of hepatitis B infection are to be minimised.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000276:immunology / Q000517:prevention & control; D006510:Hepatitis B Antibodies / Q000032:analysis; D006512:Hepatitis B Core Antigens / Q000032:analysis; D006514:Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / Q000032:analysis; D006801:Humans; D007114:Immunization; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D008849:Micronesia; D008875:Middle Aged; D012883:Skin Ulcer / Q000276:immunology; D013653:Tattooing
chemical_list: D006510:Hepatitis B Antibodies; D006512:Hepatitis B Core Antigens; D006514:Hepatitis B Surface Antigens