Abstract
BackgroundHepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the most easily transmitted blood-borne pathogen and is an occupational hazard for health care workers (HCWs). Despite the fact that infection is preventable through vaccination and post-exposure immunoglobulin therapy, many HCWs are unaware of the risks of HBV infection and of appropriate preventative measures. This study is unique in the South African setting as it focuses on the exposure, attitude and knowledge of doctors to HBV infection.MethodThis was an observational descriptive study. Records of the HBV immune status of all doctors who reported an occupational injury (OI) to the occupational health clinic between June 2010 and May 2011 were reviewed. A structured questionnaire was then distributed to all laboratory personnel and senior doctors employed at the hospital.ResultsOf the 67 doctors who reported an OI, 39% (26 out of 67) had no HBV immunity and only 19% (5 out of 26) had received Hepatitis B immunoglobulin. Of the 78 doctors who completed the questionnaire, 65% (51 out of 78) reported at least one OI during their career. Fifty-six percent of the respondents were unaware of their HBV immune status and only 31% had received a booster within the previous 5 years.ConclusionPoor compliance of HCWs to HBV vaccination and post-exposure prophylaxis is a concern. In-service training is needed to inform staff of the efficacy of HBV vaccination and immunoglobulin therapy.
Highlights
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a recognised occupational hazard for health care workers (HCW) who are in contact with infected body fluids and sharp instruments.[1]
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a recognised occupational hazard for health care workers (HCWs) who are in contact with blood, body fluids and sharp instruments
All HCWs who have been exposed to blood or blood products presenting at the occupational health clinic (OHC) are routinely tested for HBV and HIV antibodies as part of the Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) protocol at the hospital
Summary
Key focusHepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a recognised occupational hazard for health care workers (HCW) who are in contact with infected body fluids and sharp instruments.[1]. Personal observation at the occupational health clinic (OHC) at the combination hospital (regional and district) where the researcher is based suggested that the Department of Health’s (DOH) obligation in terms of the Act[2,3] to ensure that all HCWs are appropriately protected against HBV infection was not being met, especially amongst senior doctors and laboratory personnel. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a recognised occupational hazard for health care workers (HCWs) who are in contact with blood, body fluids and sharp instruments. According to South African legislation,[2] every employer must have a system in place to ensure that all staff are immunised against HBV infection and that exposures to HBV and other blood-borne pathogens are reported and appropriately managed. The KwaZulu-Natal DOH has made provision for hepatitis immunisation to be made available through OHCs to all staff members who have not previously been immunised and for those who need booster immunisation.[3]
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