TUESDAY, Aug. 30, 2005 (HealthDay News) -- Few people with chronic hepatitis C virus are being routinely vaccinated against the hepatitis A virus, even though this type of immunization is strongly recommended for patients with chronic liver disease.
That's the finding of new research published in the September issue of Hepatology.
Of almost 1,200 patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection -- which can lead to fatal liver disease -- only 94 had been vaccinated against hepatitis A, according to researchers with the New York University School of Medicine. Just one dose had been given to 45 of those 94 patients.
"The low rates of hepatitis A virus (HAV) testing and vaccination are striking given the presence of recommendations to vaccinate these individuals against HAV since 1996," the authors said in a prepared statement. "These findings have substantial public health implications and represent missed opportunities for prevention."
Hepatitis A infection can cause severe liver disease, liver failure, and even death in patients already suffering from chronic liver disease. A vaccine has been available since 1995.
The authors speculated that the reasons for the low vaccination rates could include patient refusal, a lack of knowledge by health care providers, a lack of resources, or a greater need to address more pressing health issues during medical visits.
More information
The Hepatitis Foundation International has more about living with hepatitis.
