The Use of a Combination Vaccine in International Travelers Visiting Countries with High Endemic Rates of Hepatitis A and/or Hepatitis B

Abstract

Hepatitis A and B represent a significant threat to international travelers. Both diseases are preventable through vaccination, though fewer than half of at-risk visitors in endemic regions are protected. Current vaccination recommendations should be revised to ensure adequate immunity for all international travelers against hepatitis A and B, as both diseases pose comparable danger. Since exposure to the viruses cannot be predicted, vaccination should be offered to all individuals visiting destinations with intermediate or high endemicities of hepatitis A and/or B, regardless of length of stay and standard of accommodation. Risk groups and endemicity of hepatitis A and B overlap, therefore, a combination vaccine against both forms is beneficial.