ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To explore the serological infection rate of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in general population aged over one year old in Beijing and to provide information for control and prevention of the disease.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A multistage randomized cluster sampling was carried out in general population of Beijing, aged over one year old. Every study subject's hepatitis B immunization history and main risk factors were investigated through questionnaire. Venous blood samples were collected and then tested for five hepatitis B serological antigens and antibodies by means of Abbott Microparticle Enzyme Immunoassy method.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The prevalence rates of HBsAg, anti-HBs, anti-HBc and total HBV infection rate were 3.49% (95% CI:2.99-3.99), 37.79% (95% CI: 36.46-39.12), 35.04% (95% CI: 33.72-36.35) and 35.09% (33.78-36.40) respectively. The age standardized rates were 3.02% ,42.47% ,26.86% and 26.90% respectively.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Achievement in hepatitis B control and prevention was made in Beijing since the prevalence rate of hepatitis B surface antigen had been below 1% for children aged less than 5 years old. As for the general population, the prevalence rate of hepatitis B surface antigen had reduced to</p>