Hepatitis B vaccine: implications for dental personnel.
The available data indicate that a highly effective vaccine to combat hepatitis B has been developed. In a well-controlled, double-blind clinical study of a high risk group (male homosexuals), this vaccine stimulated the production of anti-HBs in more than 92% of the test group followed for two years. As a generalization, this new vaccine can be described as highly effective, safe, stable, and a welcome addition to preventive medicine. Dentists, in particular oral surgeons and periodontists, are in a high risk category with respect to hepatitis B exposure. This vaccine deserves considerable attention by these groups. All members of the dental profession should seriously consider the use of this vaccine as a personal and public health measure when it becomes commercially available.
D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003727:Dental Auxiliaries; D003815:Dentists; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000517:prevention & control; D006515:Hepatitis B virus / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control; D014611:Vaccination; D014765:Viral Vaccines / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D014765:Viral Vaccines