Preventing hepatitis A and hepatitis B virus infections among men who have sex with men

Clin Infect Dis. 2002 Dec 1;35(11):1382-7. doi: 10.1086/343044. Epub 2002 Nov 13.

Abstract

Hepatitis A and hepatitis B are 2 common sexually transmitted diseases that are preventable by vaccination. Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at increased risk of acquiring hepatitis A virus and hepatitis B virus through sexual exposure. Current guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that MSM receive immunizations against hepatitis A and hepatitis B. Many health care providers and most MSM are unaware of the risks and the potentially dangerous consequences posed by hepatitis A and B virus infection, and the MSM thus remain unvaccinated and unprotected from exposure to these viruses. It is important for health care providers to educate and vaccinate their at-risk male patients against hepatitis A and hepatitis B virus infections.

MeSH terms

  • HIV Infections / complications
  • Hepatitis A / epidemiology
  • Hepatitis A / prevention & control*
  • Hepatitis A Vaccines / administration & dosage*
  • Hepatitis A virus / immunology*
  • Hepatitis B / epidemiology
  • Hepatitis B / prevention & control*
  • Hepatitis B Vaccines / administration & dosage*
  • Hepatitis B virus / immunology*
  • Homosexuality*
  • Homosexuality, Male
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Vaccination

Substances

  • Hepatitis A Vaccines
  • Hepatitis B Vaccines