Abstract
Meta-analysis of seroprevalence surveys shows that horizontal transmission of hepatitis B virus (ie, that occurring without apparent parenteral, sexual, or perinatal exposure) is common in areas endemic for the virus. It occurs especially in pre-adolescent children. In developed countries, where endemicity of hepatitis B virus is low, horizontal transmission (probably via saliva or open wounds) may occur in households with a persistent carrier, but it is less efficient a means of infection than is sexual or perinatal transmission. Horizontal transmission also seems possible in pre-school day-care centres in developed countries, despite the small numbers of carriers in such places.
Publication types
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Comparative Study
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Adolescent
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Adult
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Age Factors
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Carrier State / epidemiology
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Carrier State / immunology
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Carrier State / transmission*
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Child
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Child, Preschool
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DNA, Viral / analysis
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Family Health
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Global Health
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Hepatitis B / epidemiology
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Hepatitis B / immunology
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Hepatitis B / transmission*
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Hepatitis B Antibodies / analysis*
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Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / genetics
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Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / immunology
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Hepatitis B e Antigens / genetics
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Hepatitis B e Antigens / immunology
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Hepatitis B virus / genetics
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Hepatitis B virus / immunology
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Hepatitis B virus / physiology
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Hepatitis, Chronic / immunology
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Hepatitis, Chronic / transmission
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Humans
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Infant
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Infant, Newborn
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Meta-Analysis as Topic*
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Middle Aged
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Risk Factors
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Saliva / microbiology
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Schools
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Virus Replication
Substances
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DNA, Viral
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Hepatitis B Antibodies
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Hepatitis B Surface Antigens
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Hepatitis B e Antigens