Introduction. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is still a major public health problem in Brazil. It is estimated that at least 15% of the population has been exposed to HBV. Hepatitis B is unequally distributed throughout the country, as a result of the wide territory and socio-economic differences. Hepatitis B vaccination in South Brazil began in 1993, limited to children younger than 4 years of age. Currently, it is recommended in a three-dose schedule beginning at birth. Vaccination against HBV is also available for unvaccinated persons up to 29 years. Objectives. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of hepatitis B markers of infection and immunity among middle school students in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. Patients and methods. This comprehensive cross-sectional seroprevalence study included 2,044 volunteers aged 10 to 16 years old in five major cities of the state. From 2008 to 2009 blood samples were obtained from all enrolled subjects and stored at -20°C. HBsAg, anti-HBc and anti-HBs serologies were performed using automated microparticles enzymatic immunoassay (Abbott®, AxSYM System). Previously published results will be analyzed along with new data. Results. The overall prevalence of present or past HBV infection in the studied population was 0.9% (18 subjects). Eighty eight percent (88%) of all adolescents had detectable anti-HBs titers and 11% presented susceptibility to HBV infection, with no seromarkers for HBV. Conclusion. This study found a very low prevalence of HBV markers of infection and a great percentage of immunity, demonstrating the success of the vaccination program against hepatitis B in the state. These findings preindicate a very optimistic situation as to HBV infection and its consequences in the future for this population. With this continuous decrease in rates of HBV, public health resources could be redirected from treating HBV-related conditions to treating other diseases that cannot be so easily prevented.