Serological survey of hepatitis B in northern Rwanda.
To assess the importance of perinatal transmission of hepatitis B virus and the risk of infection in different age groups in Northern Rwanda, filter paper dried blood samples from 350 subjects were examined for HBsAg and anti HBs. The study shows that vertical transmission is not very frequent in this area, and that the risk of infection increases with age. These results indicate that vaccination against hepatitis B in children could be delayed and included in the standard immunization programme.
Gascon
J
J
Hôpital de Nemba, Rwanda.
Bruguera
M
M
Corachan
M
M
Mayor
A
A
Sanchez Tapias
J M
JM
Rodes
J
J
D000328:Adult; D002353:Carrier State / Q000453:epidemiology; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003906:Developing Countries; D005260:Female; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000635:transmission; D006510:Hepatitis B Antibodies / Q000032:analysis*; D006514:Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / Q000032:analysis* / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D011247:Pregnancy; D011251:Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / Q000453:epidemiology; D012432:Rwanda
D006510:Hepatitis B Antibodies; D006514:Hepatitis B Surface Antigens