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

Objectives. This study sought to identify groups for targeted vaccination d uring 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 compar ed with population-based controls. Results. In comparison with SI controls, the 40 case patients were more lik ely to inject methamphetamine, to attend emergency rooms more often than ot her health care facilities, and to have a family member who used the Specia l 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.