BACKGROUND:
Among U.S. adult prison inmates, the overall prevalence of current or previous HBV infection ranges from 13% to 47%. The prevalence of chronic HBV infection among inmates is 1.0%-3.7%, two to six times the prevalence in the general U.S. adult population. The CDC recommends hepatitis B vaccination of inmates of long-term correctional facilities. The Sheriff's Female Furlough Program (SFFP)is a work-release program where participants range in age from 17-53 years and are non-violent offenders often charged with prostitution and/or illicit drug involvement.

OBJECTIVE:
To provide hepatitis prevention education, hepatitis C and HIV screening and hepatitis A and B vaccines to women at high risk for acquiring hepatitis A, B, C and HIV infections.

METHOD:
Since January 2004, Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) Immunization Program, CDPH Sexually Transmitted Disease Corrections Program, and Howard Brown Health Center provide education, screening and vaccinations for SFFP participants on a monthly basis. SFFP participants are offered vaccine for hepatitis A and B based on high-risk behaviors such as illicit/injection drug use and unprotected sex. Demographic and contact information is collected prior to vaccine administration and entered into the CDC's Adult Clinic Assessment Software Application (ACASA) for tracking. Participants are given immunization records and are referred to CDPH immunization clinics for subsequent doses.

RESULT:
Of the 200 women vaccinated since January 2004, 2% have received 2 doses of hepatitis A vaccine, 14 % have received at least 2 doses of hepatitis B vaccine, and 3% have completed the hepatitis B vaccination series. Tracking and follow-up of participants will continue in 2005 to determine vaccine series completion.

CONCLUSION:
Hepatitis prevention education, hepatitis C and HIV screening and vaccinations can be delivered effectively in correctional facilities.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
Learn about coordination and partnership with correctional facilities and other organizations to reduce the incidence of HBV infection among inmates.