Current views on the persistence of immunity following hepatitis B vaccination

Przegl Epidemiol. 2015;69(1):47-51, 147-50.
[Article in English, Polish]

Abstract

This paper presents current views on the persistence of immunity following vaccination against hepatitis B. Very high effectiveness of hepatitis B vaccination has been reported in a number of studies worldwide. Standard vaccination with approved schedule induces protective antibody titers in healthy newborns, children, adolescents and adults in more than 96% and 90% of cases, respectively. A number of studies have also confirmed the occurrence of anamnestic response to a booster injection of HB vaccine even after 20 years following primary immunization. From the numerous studies transpires that cellular response following hepatitis B vaccination persists longer compared to humoral response. Irrespective of gradual decline and loss of anti-HBs antibodies, adequately performed primary immunization in healthy persons ensures long-term protection against acute and chronic stages of hepatitis B. In fact, T and B lymphocytes, whose responsiveness prevails the presence of anti-HBs antibodies in serum, are true markers of immunity. A special attention should be given to persons with secondary immunodeficiencies or immunosuppressed patients whose immunization against hepatitis B raises difficulties.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Hepatitis B / epidemiology
  • Hepatitis B / immunology*
  • Hepatitis B / prevention & control*
  • Hepatitis B Antibodies / immunology*
  • Hepatitis B Vaccines / immunology*
  • Hepatitis B Vaccines / therapeutic use
  • Hepatitis B virus / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Immunization, Secondary
  • Immunologic Memory / immunology*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Vaccination / methods
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Hepatitis B Antibodies
  • Hepatitis B Vaccines