Bloodborne Pathogens Guide

Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B (formerly known as serum Hepatitis) is a liver disease caused by a virus. The disease is fairly common; more than 2,000 cases are reported in New York State each year.
Who gets Hepatitis B?
Anyone can get Hepatitis B, but those at greater risk include:
  • Drug abusers who share needles.
  • Certain healthcare workers who have contact with infected blood.
  • Homosexual males, particularly those with multiple partners.
  • People in custodial care (in settings such as developmental centers).
  • Hemodialysis patients.
  • Certain household contacts of an infected person.
  • Infants born to mothers who are Hepatitis B carriers.
How is the virus spread?
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis B?
The symptoms of Hepatitis B include fatigue, poor appetite, fever, vomiting and occasionally joint pain, hives or rash. Urine may become darker in color and then jaundice (a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes) may appear. Some individuals may experience few or no symptoms.
How soon do symptoms appear?
For how long is a person able to spread the virus?
What is the treatment for Hepatitis B?
What precautions should Hepatitis B carriers take?
Hepatitis B carriers should follow standard hygienic practices to ensure that close contacts are not directly contaminated by his or her blood or other body fluids. Carriers must not share razors, tooth brushes or any other object that may become contaminated with blood. In addition, susceptible household members, particularly sexual partners, should be immunized with Hepatitis B vaccine. It is important for carriers to inform their dentist and healthcare providers.
How can Hepatitis B be prevented?
A vaccine to prevent Hepatitis B has been available for several years. It is safe, effective and is recommended for people in high-risk settings who have not already been infected and infants who are born to mothers who are carrying the virus. It is also recommended that Hepatitis B vaccine be universally administered to all children along with their routine childhood immunizations beginning at birth or two months of age. A special Hepatitis B immune globulin is also available for people who are exposed to the virus. In the event of exposure to Hepatitis B, consult a doctor or the local health department.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C (formerly known as non-A, non-B Hepatitis) is a liver disease caused by a recently identified bloodborne virus. Approximately 200 cases of Hepatitis C are reported in New York State each year. More »
Other Types of Hepatitis
  • Hepatitis A (formerly known as infectious Hepatitis)
  • Hepatitis D (delta Hepatitis)
  • Hepatitis E (a virus transmitted through the feces of an infected person)
Applicable Regulations

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