neonates prevent hep b transmission of antibiodies

The WHO estimates that more than 2 billion people have been infected with HBV virus at some point in their lives and 350 million people across the world continue to carry chronic HBV infection, of whom almost one million die annually from HBV-related liver disease. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a global public health problem. Management of chronic HBV infection in pregnancy is mostly supportive with antiviral medications indicated in a small subset of HBV infected women with rapidly progressive chronic liver disease. Chronic HBV infection during pregnancy is usually mild but may flare after delivery or with discontinuing therapy. In addition to considerations regarding the transmission of HBV to the child, the combination of HBV infection and pregnancy raises several unique management issues. Because of the correlation between prenatal transmission and the level of maternal viremia, some authors find it sound to offer lamivudine in women who have a high viral load (more than 8 to 9 log 10 copies/mL). Prenatal transmission is responsible for the minority of MTCT not preventable by immunoprophylaxis. Natal transmission accounts for most of MTCT, and providing immunoprophylaxis to newborns is an excellent way to block natal transmission.

Prevention of MTCT is an essential step in reducing the global burden of chronic HBV. In endemic areas, HBV infection occurs mainly during infancy and early childhood, with mother to child transmission (MTCT) accounting for approximately half of the transmission routes of chronic HBV infections.

Neonates prevent hep b transmission of antibiodies