We conducted a serological survey of pregnant women attending prenatal clinics in northeastern Romania to determine the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in this population. Overall, 162 (28%) of 573 women had evidence of past or current HBV infection, and 48 (8.4%) were carriers. The prevalence of past or current infection rose with age, but did not differ by educational level, occupation, or rural versus urban residence. Integration of hepatitis B vaccine into routine childhood immunization schedules, with the first dose given at birth, may have a substantial impact on HBV infection in Romania by preventing both perinatal and early childhood transmission.
PIP: Blood-borne pathogens like hepatitis B virus (HBV) have been a major cause of human sickness and significant economic drain worldwide. Current vaccination programs are based on levels of infection in the population. Romanian orphanages were found to have children with high levels of HBV. This paper reports the findings of a serological survey for HBV in pregnant Romanian women. Blood was taken from 573 women surveyed. Each blood sample was tested for antibodies to the HBV core antigen by radioimmunoassay. Data were statistically assessed using the Z-test, the Chi-square, and the Chi-square for trend. 162/573 women (28%) had a current or past HBV infection. 48/573 women (8.4%) were considered HBV carriers, as they tested positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). In Romania, HBV infections are common in women giving birth. It is for this reason that a large-scale vaccination program should be a major public health priority. HBV vaccination could be incorporated into the existing routine childhood immunization schedules.