Hepatitis B vaccination coverage in Germany: systematic review

Abstract Background Despite being considered as a low prevalence country for hepatitis B (HBV), some populations in Germany are at higher risk of infection. In the context World Health Organization’s (WHO) viral elimination goals, valid epidemiological data base is needed to plan and monitor national response. Prevention strategies include general targeted HBV vaccination programmes. Objective The aim this work was estimate coverage (VC) population (GP) different groups from available evidence identify current gaps future research. Methods We conducted systematic review on VC high exposure or severe infection Germany. included eligible publications (01/01/2017 06/06/2020) databases Embase, Pubmed Livivo, previous scoping (including published 01/01/2005–17/03/2017), surveillance system screened reference lists all full text level. Risk bias assessed using Hoy et al. tool. Results 68 67 studies assigned them one more suitable groups. Twenty-one contained among children/adolescents three adults GP (VC 65.8–90.5% 22.9–52.1%, respectively), travelers 89.0%), 13 immunocompromised 7.8–89.0%), 16 with occupational non-occupational 63.6–96.5% 4.4–84.5%, respectively). Conclusion Comprehensive identified children/adolescents. However, 25 years after including immunisation schedule, still below 95%-goal defined by WHO. For people exposure, mostly reported be over WHO goal 80%, but quality heterogenous should improved. sparse quality. highlights need research programmes targeting these populations.