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Chronic hepatitis B virus infection causes nearly all the deaths from this virus. As the initial infection occurs without symptoms and decades prior to the onset of cirrhosis and liver cancer, these consequences are rarely recognized as being caused by the virus. Consequently, its public health importance is under-recognized. Safe and effective vaccines have now been available for over 20 years. Concerns have been raised regarding the mercury preservative in vaccines leading to potential toxicity. But the evidence to date does not support any association of hepatitis B vaccine with serious adverse consequences. Protecting infants through immunization is the most effective control strategy. By 2005, over 80% of countries had implemented routine infant immunization. In countries with relatively low rates of hepatitis B virus infection, some have argued to defer immunization until later life. However, these arguments focus on the more visible acute infection. The possible future cost from a single infant infection argues for universal infant hepatitis B immunization - given the very high costs of treating its consequences (e.g., liver transplant) and the very low price of the vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reports on the outcome of a measles control program implemented in the Western Pacific Region in 1997-1998. Coordination of immunization activities in the Pacific Island countries; Diverse challenges for measles control; Proposal of regional elimination as the appropriate disease control target for the region.

Two letters to the editor are presented regarding the legacy of New Zealand Prime Minister David Lange and on the fashion of men for war.

Presents a letter to the editor in response to the article "Preventing and treating hepatitis B infection," by R. Aggarwal and P. Ranjan, in the November 6, 2004 issue.

Presents a letter to the editor in response to the article "Monitoring global health: time for new solutions," by C.J.L. Murray, A.D. Lopez, and S. Wibulpolprasert, in the November 6, 2004 issue.