Decision arises in response to the increase in cases of the disease in the adult population, which intensified after the beginning of vaccination of children in 2014
It announced a new guideline that expands vaccination against hepatitis A, now including users of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PREP) to HIV. This decision arises in response to the increase in cases of the disease in the adult population, which intensified after the beginning of children’s vaccination in 2014. The Government’s goal is to vaccinate 80% of more than 120,700 people who are registered in the Unified Health System (SUS) and use PREP. Immunization will be made in two doses, with a six -month interval between them, and it will be necessary to present a prescription for the application. Hepatitis A is a viral infection that causes inflammation in the liver, being more severe in adults.
The main form of transmission is fecal-oral, but the World Health Organization (WHO) observed an increase in cases associated with sexual practices. Since 2017, Brazil has registered a sexually transmitted case growth, especially among men who have sex with men, who correspond to about 80% of prep. To control hepatitis A outbreaks, the country has implemented specific vaccination actions that have been effective. The inclusion of PREP users in the vaccination campaign is an important strategy to protect this vulnerable population and reduce the incidence of the disease.
Posted by Sarah Paula
*Report produced with the aid of AI
