In India, heterogeneous groups of individuals susceptible to hepatitis A virus infection coexist in different regions. A decline in antibody titres to HAV has been noted among young adults which may pose a major public health problem.

A study by Chauhan and colleagues evaluated the IgG anti-HAV level among healthcare workers (HCWs) ages 20-60 years and its association with socio-demographic variables.

Blood sample was collected from all participants followed by the preparation of serum and storing at -20°C. ELISA-based kits were used to determine IgG antibodies to HAV in the serum samples.

Two hundred and fifty four HCWs were recruited in the study. About 97.2% of the samples had IgG anti-HAV antibodies. There appeared to be no differences in the levels of IgG anti-HAV antibody and education, income, occupation and socio-economic classes of the HCWs. There was a seropositivity rate of more than 90% amongst all the socio-economic classes.

According to the study results, high levels of IgG protective antibodies were identified among the HCWs evaluated; hence, HAV vaccination may not be required. Authors suggested that a cost-benefit analysis of vaccination for HAV needs to be done.

Source: Chauhan S, Agarwal J, Jain A, et al. Status of Adult Immunity to Hepatitis A Virus in Healthcare Workers From a Tertiary Care Hospital in North India. Indian J Med Res. 2019 Nov;150(5):508-511.