Epidemiology and Treatment of Hepatitis B in Prisoners.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The review details recent literature reports regarding Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and, in particular, Hepatitis B prevalence/incidence in incarcerated populations around the world. Furthermore, the review will summarize the national/international guidelines regarding HBV and look at diagnosis, vaccination, treatment, and linkage to care after release.

RECENT FINDINGS: HBV affects prisoners at a much higher rate than the general populations. Many who are at increased risk for HBV infection are also at increased risk for incarceration. Incarcerated settings also have higher rates of HBV transmission.

SUMMARY: Incarcerated individuals should be immunized if they are not already immune to HBV. Increased access to safe injecting and tattoo paraphernalia, condoms, and personal hygiene equipment could reduce the spread of HBV and other blood-borne and sexually transmitted infections. Future research should focus on ways to prevent the spread of HBV and similar viruses in incarcerated settings in order to protect incarcerated individuals and the general public. Research on effective linkage to community HBV care following release is needed.