Literature Update - January, 2004
Compiled by Dr Deb Friedman, VICNISS ID Physician
Transmission of Hepatitis C by Blood Splash into Conjunctiva
A recent report in the American Journal of Infection Control (Dec, 2003; 31:502-4) is a cautionary tale about the transmission
of hepatitis C from an exposure as seemingly trivial as a splash to the eye.
A haemodialysis nurse in Turkey acquired hepatitis C infection 6 months after a blood splash to the conjunctiva from an
anti-HCV positive patient.
This is not the first report of the acquisition of hepatitis C from a blood splash exposure, but it is a reminder
that while rare, it certainly can occur. For this reason, all hospitals should ensure that they have an updated plan
for the follow up of staff exposed to bloodborne viruses, and that they educate staff and promote the wearing of eye
protection or a face shield during surgery or procedures when splashes to the eyes could occur.