The most common infections acquired from a needlestick injury are hepatitis B and C.
Needlestick Injuries and Infection Risk
Needlestick injuries, an occupational hazard particularly prevalent in the surgical field, pose a significant risk of bloodborne pathogen transmission. While HIV is a concern, studies indicate a higher risk of contracting Hepatitis B and C through such incidents.
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Hepatitis B and C: These viral infections are the leading cause of concern regarding needlestick injuries.
- They can cause chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
- Effective vaccines exist for Hepatitis B, but not for Hepatitis C.
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HIV: While a serious concern, the risk of HIV transmission from a needlestick injury is lower compared to Hepatitis B and C.
Reference:
The reference states: "Needlesticks injuries have long been considered an accepted occupational hazard for surgeons, with relatively little emphasis on prevention until the advent of HIV infection. Despite the concern about HIV, the bigger risk in needlestick injuries involves transmission of hepatitis B and C."
