NCJ Number
121462
Date Published
1989
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This booklet instructs public officials about Hepatitis B: how the disease can affect employees and the public, who is at risk, the pitfalls of testing for the disease, and preventive measures.
Abstract
Hepatitis is a liver disease that can result in months of disability and even death. Hepatitis B is of particular concern to public officials because of the way it is transmitted and its serious after effects. Only the blood, saliva, and semen of carriers have been shown to be contagious; however, these can be extremely infectious. The three most commonly reported sources of Hepatitis B are intravenous drug abuse, contact with an infected person, and homosexual activity. Workers occupationally exposed to blood, body fluids, or tissues should be protected from the risk of disease. Preventive steps are to eliminate contact with infectious materials through protective equipment and appropriate handling of suspect items and to vaccinate employees. This booklet discusses testing for immunity, compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's guidelines in the management of risk, and legal protections for infected persons. Additional materials provided cover safety guidelines for preventing the transmission of Hepatitis B and the human immunodeficiency virus as well as other blood borne pathogens in various occupational settings.