Study on Hepatitis B Vaccine Effectiveness in Children
Author Information
Author(s): Giambi Cristina, Bella Antonino, Barale Antonella, Montù Domenico, Marchisio Maria, Oddone Maurizio, Zito Salvatore, Rapicetta Maria, Chionne Paola, Madonna Elisabetta, Atti Marta L Ciofi degli
Primary Institution: Istituto Superiore di Sanità
Hypothesis
Does the hexavalent vaccine provide long-term immunity against hepatitis B in children?
Conclusion
The study found significant differences in antibody levels between children vaccinated with two different hexavalent vaccines, indicating that immunologic memory persists in children with low antibody levels.
Supporting Evidence
- 69% of children vaccinated with Hexavac® had protective antibody levels compared to 96% with Infanrix Hexa®.
- Post-booster, 93% of children achieved protective antibody levels.
- The study involved 242 children, with 113 vaccinated with Hexavac® and 129 with Infanrix Hexa®.
Takeaway
This study looked at how well hepatitis B vaccines work in kids. It found that some kids didn't have enough protection, but most could still respond well to a booster shot.
Methodology
The study involved testing antibody levels in children vaccinated with two different hexavalent vaccines and administering a booster dose to those with low antibody levels.
Limitations
Anti-HBs titers after primary immunization were not available, making it unclear if low pre-booster titers were due to primary non-response or decline over time.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 2 to 3 years, previously vaccinated with either Hexavac® or Infanrix Hexa®.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Confidence Interval
95%CI 18.8–40.4 for Hexavac®; 95%CI 245.0–450.3 for Infanrix Hexa®
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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