title: Varying antibody response in hospital staff vaccinated against hepatitis B.
abstract: Staff from a Department of Infectious Diseases (n = 64) were vaccinated against hepatitis B with HBVax (Merck, Sharp & Dohme), a plasma derived vaccine. Prevaccination testing showed a low prevalence of hepatitis B virus markers (1.4%). Only 1 person showed signs of anamnestic antibody response. Post-exposure prophylaxis and strict hygienic routines are recommended for non-operating hospital staff in areas with low prevalence of hepatitis B virus carriers. The anatomic site of intramuscular administration of the vaccine is discussed. The overall antibody response was low, 83% acquired a protective titer of anti-HBs and only 44% in the age group greater than 40 years of age. Postvaccination testing seems strongly advisable, especially in an older age group.
authors.affiliation: Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Lund, Sweden.
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Ljunggren
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Löfgren
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Nordenfelt
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D005260:Female; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000276:immunology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D006510:Hepatitis B Antibodies / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008505:Medical Staff, Hospital; D008875:Middle Aged; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital; D014611:Vaccination
chemical_list: D006510:Hepatitis B Antibodies