Identifying target groups for a potential vaccination program during a hepatitis A communitywide outbreak

Abstract

Objectives. This study sought to identify groups for targeted vaccination during a communitywide hepatitis A outbreak in 1996. Methods. Residents of the Sioux city, Iowa, metropolitan area reported with hepatitis A between September 1995 and August 1996 were sampled and compared with population-based controls. Results. In comparison with 51 controls, the 40 case patients were more likely to inject methamphetamine, to attend emergency rooms more often than other health care facilities, and to have a family member who used the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children. Conclusions. Groups at increased risk of hepatitis A can be identified and accessed for vaccination during communitywide outbreaks.