Hepatitis B screening and immunization for people with a mental handicap in Southampton: costs and benefits

The residential population in a long-stay hospital and its associated local-based hospital units was screened for markers of hepatitis B infection. An immunization programme was then undertaken for residents found to be at risk. The authors found that an initial screening gives valuable information, is cost effective and better than a blanket immunization policy for all residents. Other benefits included opportunities to emphasize the importance of vaccination for staff members, and for staff education in infection control measures, especially in relation to hepatitis B.