Prevalence of antibodies to hepatitis A among children and adolescents in Larnaca area, Cyprus

Eur J Epidemiol. 1999 Nov;15(10):903-5. doi: 10.1023/a:1007680310138.

Abstract

The prevalence of antibodies to hepatitis A virus was investigated in 385 children and adolescents (52.2% males), aged 6 to 18, in the Larnaca area of Cyprus. This is the first study investigating the prevalence of hepatitis A in Cyprus for this age group. The population was stratified into two groups: 6 to 12 years old and 13 to 18 years old. None of the subjects in the first group were positive. The prevalence of hepatitis A in the age of group 13 tol8 was 1.6%. In conclusion, the low prevalence of anti-HAV demonstrates the susceptibility of young Cypriots to hepatitis A. This is a cause for concern as these unprotected young adults are frequently exposed to potentially infected individuals.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Cyprus / epidemiology
  • Hepatitis A / epidemiology*
  • Hepatitis Antibodies / blood*
  • Humans
  • Seroepidemiologic Studies

Substances

  • Hepatitis Antibodies