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Ten years after seroepidemiological data were obtained in the German National Health Interview and Examination Survey 1998 (GNHIES98), German Health Interview and Examination Survey (DEGS1) data contribute to a population-based, representative surveillance of hepatitis A and B immunity and of the serological markers for hepatitis C in Germany. The prevalence of antibodies against the hepatitis A virus is 48.6 %. In comparison to the situation 10 years ago, seroprevalence is significantly higher among 18- to 39-year-old adults and is significantly lower in those aged 50-79 years. The association between age and seroprevalence has changed, indicating a decrease in naturally acquired hepatitis A immunity. Individual and population immunity has to be achieved through vaccination. Prevalence of hepatitis B antibodies indicates that 5.1 % of adults have been exposed to the virus, significantly fewer than 10 years ago (7.9 %). Prevalence of hepatitis B surface antibodies indicates that 22.9 % of adults have been vaccinated against hepatitis B. Vaccination coverage has increased in all age groups and is highest in the younger age groups. These positive trends can be attributed to the general recommendation since 1995 to vaccinate against hepatitis B. For hepatitis C, the prevalence of antibodies in the general population is 0.3 %. Germany thus remains a low-HCV-endemic country. An English full-text version of this article is available at SpringerLink as supplemental.

Virus-infected medical personnel under certain circumstances might represent a risk for pregnant women. With regard to such nosocomial provider-to-patient transmissions, the pathogens rubella virus, herpes viruses and the hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses are of particular concern. It will become clear from the following short communication that in this context one should strive to achieve optimal protection for the expectant mothers without restricting the professional activities of virus-infected members of the medical staff in an unjustified way. In this respect it always has to be kept in mind that the risk of provider-to-patient transmissions of viruses in obstetrics and neonatology can be significantly reduced by vaccinating all personnel working in these departments against infections by the rubella, varicella-zoster, and hepatitis B viruses, and that additional strict adherence to so-called universal hygienic precautions will add more than an incremental benefit.