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A study of the prevalence of hepatitis-C virus (HCV) infection in health care workers (HCWs) was conducted. All cases of hepatitis occurring among HCWs at the University of Cincinnati Hospital between January 1, 1980 and December 31, 1989 were analyzed to identify the occurrence of nonA, nonB hepatitis (NANBH). Sera were obtained from the identified NANBH cases and tested for HCV antibodies. Sera obtained from HCWs and source patients involved in a blood or body fluid exposure between 1987 and 1989 were also screened for HCV antibodies. Of the 18 cases of clinical hepatitis diagnosed during the 10 year study period, 11 were identified as hepatitis-B and seven as NANBH. One NANBH case was not examined further due to a history of intravenous drug use. Of the remaining six cases judged to be occupationally acquired, four were seropositive for HCV antibodies. Of these, one had an open wound that was exposed to the blood of a patient with chronic hepatitis, one had sustained a needlestick injury, and two had unidentified exposures. The authors conclude that the incidence of NANBH among HCWs is about three times that of the general population, indicating a significant risk for HCV infection and acquisition of NANBH among HCWs.
Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology 15(12):745-750, 1994. (24 references)
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