Korean J Pediatr Infect Dis.  2011 Dec;18(2):124-134.

A Survey for Changed Control Policies of Hepatitis B in Republic of Korea

• Han JY
• Jung TW
• Koh DK
• Kim JH

Abstract

PURPOSE
We have tried to search all concerning data on the policies of hepatitis B vaccination or surveillance of medical equipments that can transmit blood mediated diseases, including disposable syringe, in Republic of Korea, to propose references to other medical professionals.
METHODS
Data from domestic journals, government websites, computerized newspapers, etc. were reviewed. The data were arranged into four categories (governmental policies on hepatitis B control, hepatitis B mass immunization program in school, using process of hepatitis B vaccine, and policies on medical equipments surveillance, including disposable syringes, which is considered as source of blood mediated infection), and the periodic changes on each subjects in policies were reviewed.
RESULTS
Due to growing social concerns on hepatitis B in early 1980s, swift introduction and production of hepatitis B vaccine was made. After establishment of "5 year project for eradication of hepatitis B" in late 1983, number of vaccinated population jumped up to 6 million within 2 years (1984-85). However, since the immunization targets were mainly adult, not infant, this project was annulled in late 1985. Following this project, hepatitis B mass immunization program in school was carried out. In year 1995, hepatitis B vaccine was included in national immunization program. The use of disposable syringe was recommended from year 1980 but legislated in year 1985, finally.
CONCLUSION
The mainstay in controlling hepatitis B in Republic of Korea was coordination of prompt introduction of vaccine, mass immunization, high vaccination coverage rate, or use of disposable syringes. However, since there is lack of official data available, it is urgent to arrange and computerize all government data related to infectious diseases.

Keyword

Hepatitis B; Vaccine; Immunization; Policy; Disposable syringe

MeSH Terms

Adult
Communicable Diseases
Hepatitis
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B Vaccines
Humans
Immunization
Immunization Programs
Infant
Mass Vaccination
Periodicals
Republic of Korea
Syringes
Vaccination
Hepatitis B Vaccines

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