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Learning Objective:
At the end of the session participants will be able to: (1) describe the SFFP project (2) discuss coordination and partnership with correctional programs to reduce the incidence of HBV infection (3) explain the rationale for health services offered to participants.
Background:
Incarcerated persons are disproportionately burdened with infectious diseases, including hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Among U.S. adult prison inmates, prevalence of current or previous HBV infection ranges from 13% to 47% (1) with prevalence of chronic infection 1.0%-3.7%, two to six times that of the general U.S. adult population (1). Incarcerated persons are at risk for HBV infection in correctional settings and post-release in communities (2). The CDC recommends hepatitis B vaccination of inmates of long-term correctional facilities.
Setting:
Women in the Sheriff's Female Furlough Program (SFFP) are required to attend every day for 45 days to 9 months, returning home each evening. Volunteers are vaccinated for hepatitis A and B based on high-risk behaviors.
Population e.g. API Youth, MSM, IDU:
Participants are non-violent offenders often charged with prostitution and/or illicit drug involvement.
Project Description:
The SFFP project started January 2004 with collaboration between CDPH Immunization Program, CDPH STD Corrections Program, and Howard Brown Health Center. The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) Immunization Program provides vaccine once per month. Participants also receive health education and HIV/Hepatitis C testing. Volunteer information is tracked using CDC's Adult Clinic Assessment Software Application (ACASA). Immunization cards are provided with referral to CDPH clinics for subsequent doses.
Results/Lessons Learned:
Since January 2004, over 250 women have been vaccinated. Thirty two percent have received two doses and 12% have completed the hepatitis vaccination series. Hepatitis education and vaccination of women in corrections effectively targets high-risk individuals and maximizes limited resources. Tracking and follow-up will be reviewed in 2005 to determine vaccine series completion.
See more of D6 - Hepatitis Prevention and Care in Corrections and Beyond...
See more of The 2005 National Viral Hepatitis Prevention Conference