Optimizing hepatitis B vaccination in prison

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a significant global health concern.
• Prison populations represent a vulnerable group with potentially lower vaccination rates and higher exposure risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the current status of hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination among incarcerated individuals.
• To assess the impact of an intervention on HBV vaccination coverage within a prison setting.

Main Methods:

• Two evaluations were conducted over one year with inmates incarcerated for 6-12 months.
• A monitoring process was implemented between the evaluations to track vaccination progress.
• Included 231 inmates in the study population.

Main Results:

• Initial HBV vaccination coverage was 42.9% due to prior vaccination and 14.3% due to prior exposure.
• The proportion of unvaccinated inmates decreased from 42.8% at incarceration to 27.5% after 6-12 months.
• Vaccination coverage with two doses reached 63% among initially unvaccinated inmates after 6-12 months.

Conclusions:

• The study demonstrates a notable increase in HBV vaccination coverage in the prison population.
• Accelerated vaccination schedules show promise for improving HBV vaccination rates in correctional facilities.
• Targeted vaccination strategies are crucial for reducing HBV transmission in high-risk populations.