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Immunogenicity, reactogenicity and adherence with hepatitis A vaccination among drug users
Gianluca Quaglio1, Benedetta Pajusco, Paolo Civitelli
1Medical Service for Addictive Disorders, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Verona 37134, Italy.
Drug and Alcohol Dependence
|April 10, 2004
Summary
Hepatitis A virus (HAV) vaccination in drug users (DUs) shows lower initial seroconversion but achieves full immunity with a 0-6 month booster. This shorter schedule may reduce the period of vulnerability in this high-risk population.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Hepatitis A virus (HAV) vaccination is crucial for drug users (DUs) due to high hepatitis C virus prevalence and increased risk of HAV complications.
- HAV infection in DUs can exacerbate morbidity and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the immunogenicity, reactogenicity, and compliance of a 0-6 month HAV vaccine schedule in heroin DUs.
- To compare the efficacy of this schedule against standard recommendations.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 44 heroin DUs receiving a 1440 ELISA unit HAV vaccine on a 0-6 month schedule.
- Monitoring of adverse reactions, seroconversion rates, and antibody concentrations post-vaccination.
Main Results:
- Only 3 subjects (6.8%) experienced adverse reactions.
- Initial seroconversion after the first dose was 37%; all subjects were seropositive after the 6-month booster.
- Lower initial seroconversion rates and geometric mean titres were observed compared to healthy individuals.
Conclusions:
- A 0-6 month HAV vaccination schedule is effective in achieving seropositivity in DUs, potentially shortening the unprotected period.
- Further research is needed on higher doses or alternative schedules to optimize long-term protection in this population.