Epidemiology of Hepatitis B in France
France is classified as a country with low endemicity for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, with an estimated prevalence of HBs antigen (HBsAg) of 0.65%, an incidence of symptomatic acute hepatitis of 1 per 100,000 inhabitants, and for infection—including asymptomatic cases—an incidence of 4.1 per 100,000 inhabitants. The mortality rate attributable to HBV is estimated at 2.2 per 100,000 inhabitants. It is necessary for the population to have a better understanding of their HBV serostatus. This involves expanding screening policies for the infection, particularly targeting individuals with risk factors, improving the management of chronic forms, and promoting the implementation of preventive measures regarding cases of acute hepatitis B and chronic carrier status. The vaccine’s ability to reduce the incidence of acute hepatitis B and subsequently lower the risk of chronic infection has been demonstrated. However, vaccination coverage among infants and adolescents in France remains very low, at less than 50%. It is therefore imperative to improve the implementation of vaccination recommendations, targeting not only infants and adolescents but also infants born to HBsAg-positive mothers and individuals at increased risk of HBV infection. (R.A.)
Author(s): Antona D, Larsen C
Publishing year: 2010
Pages: S23-S34
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