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Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
To assess factors associated with HAV and HBV vaccine uptake when offered free during a 5-site HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) intervention trial of 15-30 year-old IDUs.
Background:
Despite CDC recommendations to vaccinate IDUs against HAV and HBV, coverage rates remain low.
Methods:
IDUs recruited from community settings completed risk behavior self-interviews and antibody testing for HIV, HCV, HAV and HBV (total anti-HBc only) before trial randomization. Vaccine was offered presumptively at pre-test (except in Chicago) and subsequent trial visits if randomized; HAV/HBV test results were available 6-8 weeks post-baseline. Vaccination protocols differed by site.
Results:
Of 3285 participants, 69% were male, 64% White, and mean age was 23.8 years. HAV and HBV seroprevalence was 19% and 22%, respectively. Although 83% were willing to be vaccinated, only 36% overall received >=1 dose: 83% in Baltimore, 32% in Seattle, 18% in New York, 17% in LA, and 2% in Chicago. Most (94%) started before receiving test results. Participation was highest when vaccine was available immediately on-site (Baltimore) and lowest when offered only after receiving results (Chicago). Monetary incentive increased participation when on-site vaccination was not available (Seattle).
Conclusions:
Low HAV and HBV seroprevalence among young IDUs suggests that pre-vaccination screening is unnecessary and would have a deleterious effect on vaccine uptake. Participants were willing to be vaccinated but immediate, on-site availability was important to uptake. Convenience should be a key consideration in designing strategies to increase vaccine coverage among IDUs.
See more of D3 - Hepatitis Infection in IDUs: Current Epidemiologic Trends
See more of The 2005 National Viral Hepatitis Prevention Conference