Variations in Hepatitis B Vaccine Series Completion by Setting Among Adults at Risk in West Virginia

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Vaccinology

Background:

• West Virginia faces the highest rate of acute hepatitis B in the U.S.
• A pilot project aimed to increase hepatitis B vaccination among at-risk adults.
• Over 10,000 vaccine doses were distributed across various settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify which vaccination setting is most effective for completing the hepatitis B vaccine series.
• To analyze the likelihood of receiving 2 or 3 doses based on the vaccination location.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study analyzing data from 2013-2015.
• Participant data extracted and analyzed in 2019.
• Bivariate, multivariable, and mixed-effects regression models used to calculate odds.

Main Results:

• Vaccination at substance use treatment centers and family planning clinics increased the likelihood of receiving the 3-dose series.
• Substance use treatment centers, correctional facilities, and family planning clinics were associated with higher odds of receiving at least 2 doses.

Conclusions:

• Targeted hepatitis B vaccination strategies in family planning clinics, substance use treatment centers, and correctional facilities can improve vaccine completion rates.
• These settings show promise for increasing hepatitis B vaccine uptake in high-risk populations.