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A community clinic's response to a hepatitis A outbreak
1University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Family Health Centers of San Diego, San Diego, CA.
American Journal of Infection Control
|March 21, 2018
Summary
A community clinic rapidly vaccinated over 7,500 adults during a hepatitis A outbreak, focusing on high-risk populations like the homeless and drug users. This successful public health response highlights the importance of strong leadership and community collaboration.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- San Diego County experienced a significant hepatitis A outbreak, disproportionately affecting homeless individuals and illicit drug users.
- The outbreak necessitated urgent public health interventions to prevent further transmission within vulnerable populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the community clinic's response to the hepatitis A outbreak through a large-scale vaccination initiative.
- To identify key factors contributing to the success of the public health intervention.
Main Methods:
- A community clinic implemented a vaccination program targeting at-risk adults.
- Efforts involved interdepartmental coordination, community education, and collaboration with public health officials.
- Over 7,500 adults were vaccinated within a 7-month period.
Main Results:
- The clinic successfully vaccinated 7,521 at-risk adults in 7 months.
- The response demonstrated the effectiveness of a coordinated, multi-departmental approach.
- Strong executive leadership and partnerships were crucial for managing the public health concern.
Conclusions:
- A swift and coordinated vaccination strategy is effective in controlling outbreaks of infectious diseases like hepatitis A.
- Inter-organizational collaboration and strong leadership are vital components of successful public health responses.
- Targeted vaccination of high-risk groups, including the homeless and illicit drug users, is essential during outbreaks.