BACKGROUND:
Since 1990, state and local health departments have received federal funds to reduce vertical transmission of hepatitis B virus from a hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positive pregnant woman to her infant. Public health staff ensures that exposed infants receive hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG); three doses of hepatitis B vaccine by 6-8 months of age, household and sexual contacts are identified and offered hepatitis B vaccine. The perinatal hepatitis B prevention program (PHBPP) focuses on case management, working with delivery hospitals, obstetricians, pediatricians and laboratories.

OBJECTIVE:
A one-day workshop brought the Perinatal Hepatitis B (PHB) Coordinators from states surrounding Indiana together to discuss PHBPP implementation. The objectives were 1) address barriers, and challenges in PHB Programs, 2) identify /discuss successful strategies in identification of HBsAg-positive women, and, 3) discuss completion rates for vaccination of infants and contacts.

METHOD:
The purpose of the meeting and its content were determined in conjunction with staff from the National Immunization Program. A survey of the PHB Coordinators from states surrounding Indiana was conducted; would they be interested in participating in a meeting in Indianapolis in the fall of 2004 to discuss the PHB Program? PHB Coordinators provided input into the content of the agenda that addressed the major components of a PHBPP.

RESULT:
This meeting helped PHB Coordinators address the problems they face in their states. Discussions were held and ideas shared on many of the issues.

CONCLUSION:
Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois and Oklahoma attended this session. One day is not adequate time to develop all PHB issues. Further sessions would be valuable

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
1) Explain the “who, what, where, when” and “why” of a perinatal hepatitis b summit.
2) Describe the role of “host” and “visitors.”
3) Identify action steps and future considerations.