Prevalence of hepatitis B and C virus in health care worker [paramedical staff] of tertiary care hospital

ABSTRACT

Viral hepatitis is a major public health problem throughout the world. Viruses, which can lead viral hepatitis, are hepatitis A virus [HAV], Hepatitis B virus [HBV], Hepatitis C virus [HCV], hepatitis D virus [delta antigen], Hepatitis E virus [HEV] and hepatitis G virus [HGV]. To see the frequency of hepatitis B and C in paramedical staff [Nurses, Dispensers and laboratory workers] of tertiary care hospital. This Descriptive study was conducted among paramedical staff during the period from April 2003 to July 2005. A total of 200 cases from paramedical staff was included in the study. After taking permission or consent a proforma was filled for each volunteer about any history of previous surgery, blood transfusion, accidental needle prick. Blood samples were collected from these staff. A total number of subjects who were studied from April 2003 to July 2005. Out of which 150 were nurses, 25 were dispensers and 25 were laboratory workers. HBV positive cases in 50 males and 150 females. Anti HCV was detected in 50 males and 150 females. A campaign to discourage unnecessary injection therapy and intravenous drips must be started and public should be given awareness of their danger. Moreover public should also be instructed to avoid tattooing, ear and nose piercing and circumcision by formal barbers