The hepatitis viruses. Rationales for treatment, occupation health issues and current guidelines for best practice

Nurses are likely to come across any one, or all, of the hepatitis viruses A, B, C, D, E, (F) and G at some point in their career. It is important, therefore, that they are familiar with basic details concerning the viruses, such as their mode of transmission, methods of diagnosis and the prognosis for those who are infected. It is also important that they are aware of the implications for the health of individuals and the communities in which they live. Hepatitis B virus remains a global problem, with 5% of the world's population chronically infected. HCV is not that far behind, with 3% of the world's population infected, although the numbers are rising. HAV and HEV are less of an issue in both the developing and developed worlds and are relatively self-limiting as disease entities. Nurses play an important role in prevention and care services for both acute and chronic hepatitis. Whether they are providing needle exchanges, or involved in monitoring complex treatment programmes, their input is invaluable. Of equal importance is the involvement of patient groups and non-government organisations that have done much in the way of raising awareness and lobbying for funding for services and treatments. If nurses can respond appropriately and sensitively to the known hepatitis viruses, they will be well prepared to deal with those infections that have still to be discovered.