Recommendations for the Prevention and Control of Viral Hepatitis Among Incarcerated Persons

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Consultants Meeting to Develop Recommendations for the Prevention and Control of Viral Hepatitis Among Incarcerated Persons.

All individuals with chronic hepatitis, including those who are incarcerated, need access to immunization, testing and, when appropriate, treatment. Given the high prevalence of chronic hepatitis B and C, and the potential risk for acute hepatitis A and B infection, in incarcerated populations, we support the following principles:

Education and Counseling

Educational programs within correctional systems should permit incarcerated persons to:

• Assess their risk for viral hepatitis (e.g. utilizing a health risk assessment tool);
• Learn about the ways in which to prevent infection by avoiding high-risk behaviors;
• Appreciate the availability of vaccines for hepatitis A and B;
• Receive information in multiple languages, and in a manner that accommodates different levels of literacy, and is sensitive to cultural and ethnic differences.

Testing

Testing for hepatitis B and C should be available within correctional systems on a routine basis or for persons for whom it is indicated.

Treatment

When it is medically advisable, treatment for chronic hepatitis B or C should be made available within the prison system. Ongoing medical care should be made available for all incarcerated persons who decline or are ineligible for treatment.

Vaccination

Hepatitis A and B vaccines should be provided for all persons with chronic hepatitis C.

Hepatitis A vaccine should be made available for all incarcerated persons with chronic hepatitis B or any other form of chronic liver disease.

Due to the fact that incarcerated persons are at risk for viral hepatitis, vaccination for hepatitis A and B should be encouraged within correctional systems.

Page updated: March 13th, 2007