Seroprevalence of Hepatitis A Virus in Children and Adults

Hepatitis A is the most common form of acute viral hepatitis in the world. Major geographical differences in endemicity of hepatitis A are closely related to hygienic and sanitary conditions and other indicators of the level of socioeconomic development. In this study we aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of hepatitis A for adults and pediatric in university hospital- Gaziantep, and to demonstrate the relationship between various socio-demographic data and seropositivity. Serum samples were investigated by ELISA method for Anti HAV IgG and Anti HAV IgM. A total of 102 individuals, 55 male and 47 female, were included in the study. Anti HAV IgG positivity was detected in 87(85.3%), anti HAV IgM positivity was detected in 2 (2.0%). There weren't any significant gender differences in HAV IgG. By analysis according to the age, Anti-HAV IgG seropositivity increased with age. Although there was no significant difference in HAV IgG seropositivity according to the types of drinking water supply, HAV IgG seropositivity was detected in a less percentage in individuals who drink the commercial water. In Turkey HAV infection has been shifted to older ages than younger age. The disease is more complicated in advanced age than younger people. We recommend the importance of applying the vaccine.