History of hepatitis B vaccination in New Zealand: lessons for Australia?

Abstract

Abstract: Recognition of the high prevalence of and the problems caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in the North Island of New Zealand is largely due to the observations and work of one man, Alexander Milne. This article outlines the history of the events that led up to the culmination of his team's work—a national hepatitis vaccination strategy for New Zealand children. The situation in Australia is reassessed in the light of the New Zealand example with data based on benefit‐cost analysis of various vaccination strategies. 1993 Public Health Association of Australia