Technology exists to protect end users from needlestick injuries. 5,6 occur annually, and estimates show 3.9 million Americans are infected. Forty percent of chronic liver disease is HCV-related. Screening pregnant women for hepatitis B surface antigen has failed to identify a high proportion of HBV-infected mothers. Children of HBV infected mothers have a high risk of acquiring chronic HBV infection during the first 5 years of life.
All hepatitis viruses can cause active and chronic hepatitis.
Annually, 4,000-5,000 people die of chronic liver disease while waiting for a liver transplant. Other high-risk occupations require the use of safety devices to protect workers. Consider the use of hard hats in the construction industry, protective goggles and gloves in the steel-working industry, or seat belts in automobiles. The use of all of these safety devices has proven results. Health care workers deserve proven protection from occupational risk also.