A mass hepatitis B vaccination programme in Taiwan: its preparation, results and reasons for uncompleted vaccinations.

Chronic hepatitis B infection is hyperendemic in Taiwan. A massive hepatitis B vaccination programme has been implemented since 1984. Eight years after its introduction, the HBsAg carrier rate in young children has decreased fivefold, and the protective efficacy of the vaccines is estimated to be 85%. Despite the successful execution of the programme, a certain percentage of the population declined vaccination. The reasons for not completing or for delaying the vaccination schedule are discussed. In conclusion, a flexible and target-specific campaign should be undertaken in the future.