DIFUSIÓN DE LA HEPATITIS B ENTRE LOS RESIDENTES DE UNA INSTITUCIÓN PARA NIÑOS CON MINUSVALÍAS

Background: To estimate the prevalence of serologic markers of hepatitis B (SMHB) among residents of an institution for social or mental handicapped children in Castellon, and its association with risk factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study with deterrnination of SMHB by radioimmunoassay. 98 of the 100 residents participate in the study. Results: Prevalence of SMHB was 24,5% (95% confidente interval: 16,4%-34,1%). Seven residents were hepatitis B surface antigen positive with three hepatitis B e antigen positive. SMHB prevalence was 0 in infants, 18,8% in toddlers, 24,5% in schoolchildren, 11,1% in special education, and 76,9% in permanent residentes. Logistic regression analysis found aqsociations of SMHB prevalencie with age (Odds ratio [OR]=5,8, 95% CI: 1,1-29,0), old age at admission with protective character (OR=0,6, 95% CI: 0,4-0,8), and duration of stay (OR=1,2 95% CI: 1,0-1,3), adjusting by sex, mental deficiency, and hepatitis B (HB) determinants like surgery, blood tranfusion, odontology, bites, and injections. Conclusions: A predominant transmission of HB in young ages is suggested. Vaccitation against HB, hygienic measures, and periodic serologic studies of HB are essential to prevent this disease.