Viral Hepatitis and Health Care Workers Free Essay Example, 2000 words

This paper tells that out of all the known strains of hepatitis, hepatitis B is the most prevalent worldwide, with both its mortality and infection rates being the highest. It is commonly referred to as HBV, meaning hepatitis B virus. According to a report published by the World Health Organization, hepatitis B is a very critical occupational hazard for all health workers when compared to hepatitis A (HAV) or C (HCV), which also occur among health workers. The same report also backs up previously stated claims that HBV is more infectious (about 50-100 times more) than HIV/AIDS, but states that vaccination is the best way of preventing it. Hepatitis B and C are often transmitted via blood contact, contamination and use of unsterilized needles or equipment. HCWs that come into contact with blood products, human blood or bodily fluids that are potentially infectious are more susceptible to HBV and HCV. Over the years, it has also been established that some spheres of healthcare represe nt more risk, with orthopedic services, surgery and gynecology leading the list. CDC requires and recommends that all emergency personnel, HCWs and other people who are regularly exposed to bodily fluids and blood at work must be vaccinated against HBV. We will write a custom essay sample on Viral Hepatitis and Health Care Workers or any topic specifically for you Only $17.96 $11.86/pageorder now This vaccine guarantees a lifetime protection against HBV. Since a vaccine is yet to develop for HCV, it is highly recommended that universal precautions are strictly adhered to in addition to employing safe and simple techniques with the aim of avoiding exposure. All HCWs must follow these precautions to the latter in order to protect not only themselves but also their colleagues and patients. For individuals who are unvaccinated but who think that they may have been exposed to and contracted HBV, they should be put under post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) as soon as possible. If testing reveals that they are positive for HBV, they must be vaccinated against the disease. In this regard, they receive an initial dose of the vaccine, followed by a single dose of hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) not more than 24 hours after the confirmation of positive results.