Current Epidemiologic Evidence and Case Reports of Occupationally Acquired HIV and Other Bloodborne Diseases

Studies in which noninfected persons shared households with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected family members and friends, and had substantial though non-sexual contact with them revealed no transmissions of the HIV virus. These results suggest a similar low risk for healthcare workers, particularly those who have little or no contact with blood. However, occupational transmission of HIV, when it does occur, is most commonly caused by needlestick injuries. Nurses make up the largest group--nearly 80%--of hospital workers who contract HIV infection on the job. Generally, the risk ratio following an HIV needlestick is 1 in 250. Improper needle disposal, recapping and other ingrained behavior patterns are typical causes of needlestick accidents. Though the focus today is on HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), it is important to realize that hepatitis B accounts for 200 to 300 deaths a year among healthcare workers. Awareness of the risk of needlestick injuries, and the considerable financial and emotional costs they can impose, should justify preliminary expenditures on needlestick prevention programs.