Vaccine coverage during a school-based hepatitis B immunization program

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Immunization Programs
• Epidemiology

Background:

• A universal hepatitis B immunization program was launched for grade seven students in Ontario in 1994.
• Hepatitis B vaccination is crucial for preventing chronic infection and liver disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the vaccine coverage of the hepatitis B immunization program for grade seven students in the Greater Toronto Area.
• To identify factors influencing vaccine series completion.

Main Methods:

• An ecological study design was employed.
• Data were collected from 604 schools across seven health units in the Greater Toronto Area.
• Vaccine coverage was assessed based on student enrollment and consent rates.

Main Results:

• Overall hepatitis B vaccine coverage reached 84% (range 77.5% to 89.5%).
• Consent for vaccination was obtained for 88% of students.
• Series completion among consented students was high at 95%.

Conclusions:

• The hepatitis B immunization program achieved substantial coverage among grade seven students.
• Obtaining parental consent was a key factor influencing overall vaccination rates.
• Variations in completion rates were linked to school board, education provider, and use of educational materials.