Risk of hepatitis C seroconversion after occupational exposures in health care workers

摘要: Abstract Background: To determine the incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) seroconversion, health care workers reporting an occupational exposure with blood or other risk-prone body materials from a patient known to be seropositive for HCV antibody were enrolled. Methods: seroconversion within 6 months reported was assessed by second-generation enzyme immunoassay and immunoblot assay. Results: From January 1992 through December 1993, 331 (51%) hollow-bore needlesticks, 105 (16.5%) suture needle sharp object injuries, 85 (13%) mucous membrane contaminations, 125 (19.5%) skin contaminations reported. Four seroconversions observed after needlesticks (1.2%; 95% CI 0.3% 3.0%); no occurred routes exposure. Blood-filled source coinfection HIV appeared associated higher risk seroconversion. Conclusions: The appears low but is not negligible. Aggressive implementation universal precautions important preventing exposure, safer devices are also needed.