Public health reports
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Incarcerated populations are a group at high risk for hepatitis B. About 30% of people experiencing acute hepatitis B virus infection (HBV) have a history of incarceration. Offering routine HBV vaccinations to incarcerated individuals could have a significant effect on public health. The objective of this study is to identify current vaccine practices and the perceived feasibility of routine vaccinations for hepatitis B within correctional settings. ⋯ Most correctional systems do not routinely offer vaccine to their incarcerated populations, but would if funds were available. There exists now a unique public health opportunity to prevent a significant proportion of new hepatitis B infections.