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Learning Objective:
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to identify the steps necessary to establish a vaccination program in an existing public health structure.
Background:
The hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) are transmitted through sexual contact and illicit drug use. HAV and HBV vaccination is the most effective method of disease prevention. Vaccinating populations that attend clinics serving at-risk clients is a proven method in controlling HAV and HBV. The lack of federal dollars to establish an adult HAV and HBV vaccination program has created major funding challenges for states.
Setting:
Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinics
Population e.g. API Youth, MSM, IDU:
Sexually Transmitted Disease clinic clients.
Project Description:
Using state monies a contract was created to purchase Twinrix and adult hepatitis B vaccine. Any state or county run STD clinic was offered an opportunity to participate. The programs had to supply the staff and materials necessary to administer the vaccine and agree to follow established statndardized protocols.
Results/Lessons Learned:
13 of Indiana's 17 STD clinics participate in the program. All clinics had to include an adolescent component using VFC vaccine to their program as a condition of enrollment. Coverage will be measured from July 2003 to June 2005 and indicate the number of doses administered, % of population covered, and the risk factors of those receiving vaccine.
Establishing an adult hepatitis A and B vaccination program is an effective method of disease prevention and allows for targeting vaccine to the most at-risk populations.
See more of A5 - Hepatitis Vaccines: Making It a Reality in STD Clinics
See more of The 2005 National Viral Hepatitis Prevention Conference