The investigation of a 'cluster' of hepatitis B in teenagers from an indigenous community in North Queensland.

摘要: BACKGROUND In early 1999, five teenagers from the same Indigenous community were notified as having hepatitis B. Hepatitis B vaccine should have been offered to this cohort of in a 'catch-up' program during late 1980s when they pre-school age. OBJECTIVES To determine vaccination status residents born between 1981 and 1985 (inclusive) ascertain prevalence markers infection carriage incompletely vaccinated cohort. METHODS Community health records examined identify all study Immunisation obtained local hospital statewide computerised database. Serological tests for performed on blood samples teenagers. RESULTS Only 44% 235 who had their assessed fully vaccinated. One hundred eleven (47%) not received any vaccine. Over 90% infected with virus 26% these carriers. CONCLUSIONS Despite availability an effective recommendation catch-up program, aged children at effectively targeted vaccination. remains consequential communities North Queensland. IMPLICATIONS Initiatives control need be enhanced within existing maternal child health, sexual alcohol drug chronic disease management programs.