EU Agencies Launch Toolkit to Combat Hepatitis in Prisons

EU agencies have unveiled a comprehensive toolkit aimed at combating hepatitis B and C within European prisons, addressing critical issues related to drug-related transmission and the unique challenges of implementation. This initiative, spearheaded by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the European Drugs Agency, aligns with the World Health Organization’s goal to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.

Toolkit Details and Target Audience

Published in advance of Prisoners’ Justice Day on August 10, the toolkit provides essential guidance for healthcare professionals working within prison systems. It outlines strategies for establishing effective interventions designed to prevent and manage hepatitis B and C infections. This resource aims to enhance the quality of care provided to incarcerated individuals, ensuring that they receive necessary medical attention.

The EU currently houses approximately 499,000 prisoners, translating to 111 prisoners per 100,000 inhabitants, as reported by the European Commission. The number of incarcerated individuals reflects a 3.2% increase compared to the previous year, highlighting the pressing need for focused healthcare initiatives within these facilities.

High-Risk Environment for Hepatitis Transmission

Certain demographics within the EU exhibit a higher prevalence of hepatitis B and C, including migrants, men who have sex with men, sex workers, and particularly, prisoners. The overlap between prison populations and individuals who inject drugs creates a high-risk environment for the transmission of these viruses. The toolkit emphasizes the intertwined nature of incarceration and drug use, which significantly heightens the risk of communicable diseases.

Access to clean injecting equipment is scarce in most prison settings, exacerbating the risk of hepatitis transmission through drug use, tattoos, and body piercings. Hepatitis B and C infections are significant contributors to cirrhosis, liver cancer, liver transplantation, and liver-related mortality. The WHO estimates that 10.6 million people in Europe are living with chronic hepatitis B, while 8.6 million have chronic hepatitis C, with a substantial number remaining undiagnosed.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the European Drugs Agency have identified several barriers to effectively addressing hepatitis in prisons. These include inadequate resources, insufficient training for staff, and underdeveloped public health surveillance systems. Overcoming these challenges is essential not only for improving health outcomes for prisoners but also for reducing the risk of transmission both inside prisons and in the broader community upon their release.

This initiative signals a crucial step towards improving healthcare standards within European prisons and addressing the significant public health risks associated with viral hepatitis. By equipping professionals with the necessary tools and knowledge, the agencies aim to foster a more effective response to these pressing health challenges.