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Learning Objective:
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to describe a statewide HCV surveillance system including changing laboratory reporting requirements
Background:
It is estimated that approximately 1.8% of the US population is chronically infected with HCV. The fact that this is an estimate epitomizes the need for accurate hepatitis C surveillance systems. Before establishing a registry and surveillance system, there is a need to consider that screening for hepatitis C antibody alone may result in false positive results. As referenced in the February 2003, MMWR, in populations where the prevalence of HCV is <10%, the false positive rate for the EIA ranges from 15% to 60%. Reporting signal-to-cut-off (s/co) ratios or positive confirmation testing results is necessary in order to accurately assess the population's disease burden. Connecticut has had mandated laboratory reporting of positive anti-HCV reports for 9 years and recently required confirmation testing be reported.
Setting:
Anti-HCV reporting has been required in Connecticut from 1994-1997; 1999-2005. In 2004, laboratory-reporting forms were revised to include s/co ratios, RIBA or PCR results. The official language to mandate reporting of positive confirmation testing was passed in 2005. In addition, a laboratory survey was conducted to assess laboratory personnel's understanding of the reporting requirements. The survey was followed up with a letter that reiterated the reporting requirements and provided guidelines for testing.
Population e.g. API Youth, MSM, IDU:
Connecticut residents
Project Description:
There has been a significant increase in the number of confirmation tests received by Department of Public Health. In the first quarter of 2005, there has been a 60% increase in the amount of s/co ratios and confirmation tests received compared to the same time period in 2004.
Results/Lessons Learned:
Changing the reporting requirement to include confirmation testing can significantly improve surveillance accuracy and in turn provide better data for prevention and education programs.
See more of A6 - Viral Hepatitis Surveillance
See more of The 2005 National Viral Hepatitis Prevention Conference