Abstract
The rate of transmission and management of needlestick injuries from hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients to healthcare workers is still a matter of debate. We used a stringent protocol using monthly transaminase levels and polymerase chain reaction for HCV RNA to monitor 53 healthcare workers prospectively for up to 6 months following needle injuries from HCV-positive patients. Evidence of transmission of HCV was found in only 2 workers (4%) with mild asymptomatic infection, one of which resolved spontaneously. Based on our experience, we now use a less-intensive follow-up protocol. Further investigation is required to determine the most cost-effective method to monitor individuals who suffer a needlestick injury from an HCV-positive patient.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 63-64 |
| Number of pages | 2 |
| Journal | Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology |
| Volume | 20 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 1999 |
