Outbreak of hepatitis C virus infection in hemodialysis unit

Abstract

Background and Aim: Hepatitis C virus transmission continues to be a significant public health concern in patients undergoing hemodialysis and occasionally causes outbreaks despite risk reduction after the anti-HCV screening. This study aimed to investigate an outbreak of hepatitis C virus in the hemodialysis unit to identify the infection source and underline lapses in the infection control practices. Material and Methods: Patients and staff were assessed for hepatitis C virus infection after the outbreak. All anti‐HCV-positive patients were tested for genotype or subtypes by performing a phylogenetic analysis of NS3 sequences. The current infection control applications and possible risk factors in the unit were examined to determine the source of infection. Results: Overall, 115 patients, including three patients who were followed up for chronic hepatitis C infection, were evaluated. Anti‐HCV seroconversion was detected in 10 new patients. All patients were in the same room and during the same shift. Several lapses in infection control practices were observed. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the outbreak was caused by the same viral strain. Notably, all patients were infected with genotype 1a, and mutations in the NS3 region, subgenotype, and drug resistance were identical to one of the three patients with chronic hepatitis C. Conclusion: Direct observation and molecular test results indicated a transmission from patient to patient, thereby highlighting the importance of infection control.