Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
8969826 | Vaccine | 2005 | 8 Pages |
Abstract
Illicit drug use (IDU) is an important risk factor for hepatitis A, but implementing vaccination programs among drug users is difficult. During January 2001-July 2002, 403 hepatitis A cases were reported in Polk County, Florida; 48% were drug users and of these, 80% were recently in jail. To assess the county jail as a potential vaccination venue, we interviewed 280 inmates and conducted a serologic survey during July-August 2002. Of these, 227 (81%) reported a past IDU history. Previous HAV infection was found in 33%. In communities with illicit drug users at risk for hepatitis A and who are frequently jailed, vaccination programs in jails could be an important component of a community-based strategy to control hepatitis A outbreaks among illicit drug users.
Keywords
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Immunology and Microbiology
Immunology
Authors
Sirenda Vong, Anthony E. Fiore, Daniel O. Haight, Jinfeng Li, Nancy Borgsmiller, Wendi Kuhnert, Frances Pinero, Kathy Boaz, Tracy Badsgard, Carmela Mancini, Omana V. Nainan, Steven Wiersma, Beth P. Bell,