The implication of a reduced-dose hepatitis B vaccination schedule in low risk newborns

Five hundred and seventy-four babies born to HBsAg negative mothers in Hong Kong received either a regular (5 mug) or reduced (2.5 mug) three-dose regimen of recombinant hepatitis B vaccine. A significantly higher anti-HBs positivity rate (greater than or equal to 10 mIU/ml), geometric mean titer (GMT) and the maintenance of a high anti-HBs level (greater than or equal to 100 mIU/ml) were observed with the regular-dose regimen. The differences persisted, however, only up to 1 year post-vaccination. Over an 8-year period, only 1% of the vaccinees demonstrated anti-HBc seroconversion and none had become HBsAg positive. The long-term efficacy of the reduced-dose regimen was confirmed, even in an HBV endemic population. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.