Seroprevalence of Hepatitis A and Hepatitis A Vaccination Rate in Preschool Age in Istanbul Urban

Objective: The aim of this study is to determine Hepatitis A seroprevalence, rate of hepatitis A vaccination among pre-school age children in urban Istanbul and emphasize the importance of hepatitis A vaccination. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study included children aged 1-6 years who applied to our outpatient pediatrics clinic with a complaint other than jaundice between July and October 2008. Anti-HAV Ig G was studied by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in order to determine hepatitis A seroprevalence. Results: One hundred ninety eight (62.1%) of 319 children included in the study were male, one hundred twenty one (37.9%) were female. Vaccination history against hepatitis A was positive in 11 cases (3.4%) and was negative in 308 cases (96.6%). Anti-HAV Ig G was positive in 29 cases (9.4%) except in cases with a history of vaccination. Conclusion: Although hepatitis A seroprevalence is reduced compared with previous years in urban Istanbul, the level of vaccination rate was found very low. Due to being infected with HAV at an older age which causes increased incidence of complication, we suggest routine immunisation program for hepatitis A, beginning from childhood.