Abstract
To determine the prevalence of hepatitis B antigen (HBsAg), antibody to hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV), and antibody to human immunodeficiency virus (anti-HIV) among residents of a long-term care facility. Anonymous unlinked serosurvey. Accredited university-affiliated long-term-care facility in Toronto with 300 chronic-care hospital patients, 350 nursing home residents, and 200 residents of a senior citizens' apartment complex. Sera from left-over blood samples obtained from residents in November 1990 were tested for HBsAg, anti-HCV, and anti-HIV using standard methods. A total of 508 sera were tested. The number (%) positive for HBsAg, anti-HCV, and anti-HIV, respectively were: 3(0.6%), 7(1.4%), and 0(0%). This is the first report defining rates of infection with bloodborne infective agents among residents of a long-term care facility. These results support the use of hepatitis B vaccine for medical and nursing staff and the implementation of universal precautions in long-term care facilities.
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