Hepatitis C virus transmission in hemodialysis units: importance of infection control practices and aseptic technique

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2009 Sep;30(9):900-3. doi: 10.1086/605472.

Abstract

We investigated 4 hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection outbreaks at hemodialysis units to identify practices associated with transmission. Apparent failures to follow recommended infection control precautions resulted in patient-to-patient HCV transmission, through cross-contamination of the environment or intravenous medication vials. Fastidious attention to aseptic technique and infection control precautions are essential to prevent HCV transmission.

MeSH terms

  • Asepsis / methods
  • Cross Infection / prevention & control
  • Cross Infection / transmission*
  • Cross Infection / virology
  • Disease Outbreaks*
  • Equipment Contamination
  • Guideline Adherence
  • Hemodialysis Units, Hospital*
  • Hepacivirus / classification
  • Hepacivirus / genetics
  • Hepatitis C / epidemiology
  • Hepatitis C / prevention & control
  • Hepatitis C / transmission*
  • Hepatitis C / virology
  • Humans
  • Infection Control / methods*
  • Maryland
  • Ohio
  • Renal Dialysis / instrumentation*
  • Risk Factors
  • Virginia
  • Wisconsin