Many High Risk Americans, Including Healthcare Workers Are Not Vaccinated for Hepatitis B

Source: Medicalook

Here is an eye opening report. Many Americans at risk for Hepatitis B infection, including healthcare workers, are not vaccinated for Hepatitis B.


Investigators published a study in the Journal of Infection based on the representative survey responses (Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey)  of 15,000+ participants. Fifty-one percent of respondents at risk for Hepatitis B were unvaccinated. The authors argue that inadequate vaccination coverage and missed vaccination opportunities are driving the problem. 


Most striking, in my opinion, are healthcare workers who refuse Hepatitis B vaccination. The Hepatitis B vaccine is typically given free of charge by healthcare systems in employee health centers. Access is really not an issue. .


Whether it be an anti-vaccine sentiment in general, an underlying risk taking personality, or just a careless indifference to safety, why would one want to take the risk of acquiring a viral infection that is not easily treated and can result in cirrhosis and liver cancer, especially when a safe and effective vaccine is available?