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Multiple modes of hepatitis A virus transmission among methamphetamine users
Y J Hutin1, K M Sabin, L C Hutwagner
1Hepatitis Branch, Division of Viral and Rickettsial Disease, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA.
American Journal of Epidemiology
|July 26, 2000
Summary
Hepatitis A transmission among methamphetamine users may occur through injection, sharing drug paraphernalia, or close contact. Vaccination and immune globulin are recommended for methamphetamine users, along with safer practices.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Methamphetamine users face elevated risks for Hepatitis A infection.
- Understanding transmission routes is crucial for prevention efforts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the transmission modes of Hepatitis A among methamphetamine users during an outbreak.
- To identify risk factors associated with Hepatitis A infection in this population.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study was conducted among methamphetamine users in Iowa during a 1997 outbreak.
- Laboratory-confirmed Hepatitis A cases were compared with susceptible controls.
Main Results:
- Injecting methamphetamine (OR=5.5) and using with another case-patient (OR=6.2) were significantly associated with Hepatitis A.
- Receptive needle sharing was reported by half of injecting case-patients.
- Among non-injectors, methamphetamine use with another case-patient showed a strong association (OR=17).
Conclusions:
- Hepatitis A transmission among methamphetamine users likely occurs via fecal-oral and percutaneous routes.
- Vaccination and immune globulin are recommended for methamphetamine users exposed to the virus.
- Advising on safer practices is essential for individuals continuing methamphetamine use.