ABSTRACT
Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at an elevated risk of becoming infected with hepatitis A virus (HAV). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommend vaccination against HAV for MSM since 1995 . However, the rate of vaccination among MSM has remained low. Efforts to curb an outbreak of HAV in MSM in Atlanta during 1996-1997 met with limited success; outreach efforts succeeded in vaccinating 10% of the at-risk population . The limited success of previous outreach work (conducted in public health clinics, physicians offices, bars, sporting events and shopping malls) demonstrates the need for innovative approaches for contacting the MSM community. AID Atlanta, a local AIDS service provider, has developed a unique outreach strategy to raise awareness of the risk of HAV infection for MSM, the availability of a vaccine against HAV, and sources where MSM may access that vaccine. The campaign used contacts by local celebrities, both at gay bars and through print media, to disseminate information about HAV vaccination. The campaign was evaluated through reports of vaccine uptake from identified gay-friendly physicians as well as reports from health departments during the campaign and for a period thereafter. Data about the barriers to vaccine uptake were also collected.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants in this session will be able to: 1. Discuss and analyze the effectiveness of AID Atlanta's HAV awareness campaign utilizing the popularity of local female impersonators. 2. Apply the principles learned from this campaign to the development of future HAV outreach programs. 3. List barriers to HAV vaccination among MSM
Keywords: Hepatitis A,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: AID Atlanta, Inc
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Executive Director of AID Atlanta, Inc.