IMMUNOGLOBULIN PROPHYLAXIS AGAINST HEPATITIS-A AMONG SWEDISH UN SOLDIERS IN AN ENDEMIC REGION

Six hundred and fifteen Swedish soldiers ( {Mathematical expression} years) serving with the UN forces in Cyprus were tested for antibody against hepatitis A (anti-HAV) before and after six months' service. Before the service, a high susceptibility to hepatitis A was found, as only 2.3% (14/615) had anti-HAV. In comparison, the prevalence of anti-HAV among 124 native Cypriots ( {Mathematical expression} years) was 97% (120/124), which showed Cyprus to be a region where hepatitis A is endemic. The soldiers were given immunoglobulin (IG) prophylaxis (2 ml of 16.5% IG) against hepatitis A every third month. The incidence of subclinical seroconversion against hepatitis A among the Swedish soldiers was 0.2% (1/615). It was concluded that the IG-prophylaxis scheme used seems to be highly effective and probably completely prevents even subclinical seroconversion against hepatitis A in non-immune persons in regions where hepatitis A is endemic. © 1979 Verlagsgesellschaft Otto Spatz.