Statement on the surgeon and hepatitis B infection. American College of Surgeons

In summary, immunization against HBV appears to be the most effective method of preventing transmission of HBV from patients to members of the surgical team. Such immunization is also the most effective way to reduce the risk of transmission of HBV from surgeons to patients. Eventually, by virtue of voluntary or required immunization, essentially all surgeons will be immunized. Until that time, HBV is likely to remain a threat to surgeons. The College and its appropriate committees will continue to monitor the data and update these recommendations accordingly.