NCJ Number
196424
Journal
Corrections Forum Volume: 11 Issue: 4 Dated: July/August 2002 Pages: 76-78
Date Published
July 2002
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article explains the epidemiology of hepatitis, along with its prevalence and dangers in correctional institutions; its treatment and prevention are also addressed.
Abstract
Hepatitis is a viral infection that involves the inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis B and C are bloodborne infectious viral diseases with serious consequences. Correctional workers should be aware of these forms of hepatitis, primarily because inmates have high rates of hepatitis B and C. Of the two viruses, correctional workers are at greater risk for contracting the hepatitis B virus. Hepatitis B is 100 times more infectious than HIV, and it is transmitted through activities such as intravenous drug use or unprotected sex with an infected partner. The hepatitis B virus (HBV) causes inflammation of the liver and can cause liver cell damage that leads to cirrhosis and cancer. Hepatitis C is particularly dangerous because infected people feel and appear healthy; however, they are carrying the virus and have a damaged liver. Studies have shown that 30 percent to 45 percent of the inmate population have the HBV. Correctional officers are at risk of becoming infected because the HBV can be transmitted through a human bite with infected saliva and through contaminated sharp objects or the exchange of blood when fighting or physical restraint occurs. Interferon is the basic therapy for both hepatitis B and C infections. Because treatment is so limited for these diseases, the emphasis is on prevention. All types of hepatitis can be reduced through appropriate and adequate prevention techniques. Proper education of both inmates and staff leads to prevention. An innovative curriculum on hepatitis health education for inmates and correctional officers has been developed by the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (see website www.ncchc.org).