Work-related infectious diseases in the health care sector

Many workers are exposed to biological hazards in their workplaces. This section will focus on work-related infectious diseases affecting healthcare workers.

The use of appropriate gloves protects health care personnel from infectious agents when handling blood samples.
^{© G. Tjalvin}

Tuberculosis

The lungs are the primary site for infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis. Healthcare workers are at a significantly higher risk of contracting tuberculosis compared to the general population. The bacteria spread through airborne transmission, which poses unique challenges and necessitates specific preventive measures. For more detailed information, you can refer to the fact sheet provided by the WHO.

All healthcare facilities should provide tissues and touch-free waste containers for use by workers, patients, and visitors. Additionally, surgical masks should be given to all patients and visitors suspected of being infected to prevent the spread of droplets containing the bacteria.

Healthcare personnel involved in the care of tuberculosis patients should use respiratory protection that offers a much higher level of protection than surgical masks. A P3 respirator is recommended for those caring for tuberculosis patients. Furthermore, ventilation systems in buildings and rooms should be adapted to prevent the spread of the infectious agent.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that targets the liver and can lead to both acute and chronic disease. In healthcare settings, the virus is transmitted through exposure to infected blood and body fluids, such as through needlestick injuries or cuts from sharp objects during surgery. Fortunately, Hepatitis B can be prevented with a safe and effective vaccine.

The Hepatitis B virus can survive outside the body for at least seven days. During this period, it can still cause infection if it enters the body of an unvaccinated person. For more detailed information, you can refer to the fact sheet provided by the WHO.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a viral disease that spreads through contact with infected blood. This can occur through needlestick injuries, contaminated surgical instruments, or unsafe medical procedures, such as blood transfusions with unscreened blood products. Unlike Hepatitis B, there is no vaccine for Hepatitis C. For more detailed information, you can refer to the fact sheet provided by the WHO.

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) represents the most advanced stage of HIV infection. HIV targets white blood cells, weakening the immune system and making it easier to contract diseases like tuberculosis, infections, and certain cancers.

HIV is spread through the body fluids of an infected person, including blood, and can be transmitted via medical procedures involving unsterile cutting or accidental needlestick injuries. For more detailed information, you can refer to the fact sheet provided by the WHO.

Ebola

Ebola is a rare but severe viral illness in humans, often fatal. In healthcare settings, Ebola spreads through human-to-human transmission via direct contact (through broken skin or mucous membranes) with the blood or body fluids of a person who is sick with or has died from Ebola, as well as through objects contaminated with these fluids (such as blood, feces, vomit). Healthcare workers caring for patients with suspected or confirmed Ebola should implement stringent infection control measures to prevent contact with the patient’s blood, body fluids, and contaminated surfaces or materials like clothing and bedding. Laboratory workers are also at risk. Samples taken from humans and animals for Ebola investigation should be handled by trained staff and processed in suitably equipped laboratories. Some types of Ebola can be prevented with vaccines. For more detailed information, you can refer to the fact sheet provided by the WHO.