The Seroprevalance of Hepatitis A in Different Age Groups and Hepatitis A Incidence in Acute Hepatitis Cases in The Canakkale Province

Aim: The aim of this study is to determine Hepatitis A seroprevalance and its distribution in different age groups, and also to determine HAV incidence among acute hepatitis cases in the Canakkale province of Turkey. Material and Methods: Retrospectively, 1363 patients with non-hepatitic symptoms were examined for anti HAV IgG by the outpatient clinics of Pediatrics, Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases between Jan 2006-Dec. 2007 in Canakkale State Hospital. Meanwhile, 1320 patients who applied to the same clinics with hepatitis like symptoms were investigated retrospectively for acute Hepatitis A infection seroprevalance by anti HAV IgM seropositivity. Results: In our province, the contact rate for Hepatitis A is found to be 78.87%. The Hepatitis A seroprevalance rate was higher in older age groups. Total Acute Hepatitis A seroprevalance in all age groups was found to be 12%. Conclusion: Because of high rates of seroprevalance, pediatric cases have been placed on a routine immunisation program for hepatitis A