Advances in hepatitis immunization (A, B, E):  public health policy and novel vaccine delivery.
OBJECTIVE
This review offers an update on hepatitis A, B and E vaccines based on relevant literature published in 2011-2012. Hepatitis A and B vaccines have been commercially available for years; however, the development of the hepatitis E vaccine is still facing some challenges.


RESULTS
Current scientific evidence shows that both hepatitis A and B vaccines confer long-term protection. These data supported the updated recommendations from the WHO on hepatitis A and B vaccines and the respective booster policy. In addition, a single-dose hepatitis A vaccination programme may be an option for some intermediate endemic countries, as far as the epidemiological situation is further monitored. Recent data illustrate the co-administration of hepatitis A with infant vaccines, as well as the interchangeability with other hepatitis A vaccines. Two genetically engineered hepatitis E vaccines are currently in development, showing more than 95% protective efficacy.


CONCLUSIONS
Follow-up of vaccinated individuals confirms the long-term protection offered by the hepatitis A as well as hepatitis B vaccines. Data confirm the safety and immunogenicity profile of both vaccines, also when used in patient groups. The first data on the hepatitis E vaccine look promising, but questions on cross-protection, long-term efficacy and safety and immunogenicity in pregnant women and children less than 2 years remain unanswered.
Viral Hepatitis Prevention Board, Centre for the Evaluation of Vaccination, Vaccine & Infectious Diseases Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium. greet.hendrickx@ua.ac.be
Greet
G
Hendrickx
Alex
A
Vorsters
Pierre
P
Van Damme
D014943:Global Health; D006291:Health Policy; D006505:Hepatitis / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006506:Hepatitis A / Q000517:prevention & control; D022362:Hepatitis A Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000517:prevention & control; D017325:Hepatitis B Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D016751:Hepatitis E / Q000517:prevention & control; D016752:Hepatitis E virus / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D017589:Immunization Programs / Q000379:methods; D014611:Vaccination / Q000379:methods*; D017778:Vaccines, Combined / Q000008:administration & dosage; D014761:Viral Hepatitis Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage
D022362:Hepatitis A Vaccines; D017325:Hepatitis B Vaccines; D017778:Vaccines, Combined; D014761:Viral Hepatitis Vaccines