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Published on: October 20, 2021
Eliminating hepatitis B vaccination disparities for West African immigrants
Jessie A Birnbaum1, Daniel Guttman1, Mugdha Parulekar1
1Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY 10461, USA.
Background:
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is endemic in West Africa. There has been a significant increase in the Bronx West African (WA) community. To achieve HBV elimination, vaccination of non-immune individuals is important. Unfortunately, vaccine uptake in immigrant populations is at this time very limited.
Methods:
An educational program was conducted by medical providers of WA origin in collaboration with local faith-based organizations, after which free HBV screening was offered. Non-immune individuals were initially recommended to contact their medical provider or referred to the Department of Health for vaccination. Beginning in 2021, the program offered vaccination. A questionnaire including reasons for vaccination in the program was offered.
Findings:
Among the first500 individuals screened,34.6 % required vaccination. Among those screened before program vaccine availability, 72.2 % initiated the vaccination series,with38.2 % obtainingit at an outside setting and34 % returning when available through the program.Among patients screened after program vaccineavailability, 92.1 % initiated the series.Of those receiving vaccination in the program and completing the questionnaire,70.7 % had access to care but chose vaccination by the program because of the trust instilled by WA personnel.
Interpretation:
Our findings demonstrate the effectiveness of integrating vaccination into an HBV screening program for an immigrant population. It emphasizes the importance of timeliness and cultural sensitivity.
