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Prisoners' attitudes toward Hepatitis B vaccination
Snigdha Vallabhaneni1, Grace E Macalino, Steven E Reinert
1Brown University School of Medicine, RI 02912, USA.
Preventive Medicine
|June 15, 2004
Summary
Most inmates are willing to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine (HBV) in correctional facilities. Implementing vaccination programs in prisons is a public health priority to protect inmates and communities.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Hepatitis B remains a significant public health issue in the U.S.
- Vaccination programs in correctional facilities can target high-risk populations.
- Limited data exists on inmates' willingness to accept Hepatitis B vaccination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess inmates' knowledge of Hepatitis B.
- To determine inmates' willingness to receive Hepatitis B vaccination during incarceration.
Main Methods:
- Voluntary, anonymous survey administered to 153 inmates at the Rhode Island Department of Corrections.
- Data collected on Hepatitis B knowledge and vaccination acceptance.
Main Results:
- 93% of inmates expressed willingness to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine.
- Over 50% of inmates with risk factors did not perceive themselves as at risk.
- 44% of inmates were unaware of sexual transmission routes for Hepatitis B.
Conclusions:
- Hepatitis B vaccination programs in correctional settings are a public health priority.
- Such programs are likely to be well-received by the incarcerated population.
- Implementing these programs can improve health outcomes for inmates and the community.