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Hepatitis C among risk groups for HIV and hepatitis B
S Vanderschueren1, L Van Renterghem, J Plum
1Laboratory for Bacteriology and Virology, University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
International Journal of STD & AIDS
|May 1, 1991
Summary
Intravenous drug users show high hepatitis C virus (HCV) seroprevalence. Sexual transmission is unlikely, with parenteral exposure being the primary route for HCV infection.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Sexual transmission of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is not well understood.
- High-risk groups for HIV and Hepatitis B were assessed for HCV seropositivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection in various high-risk populations.
- To determine the primary routes of HCV transmission.
Main Methods:
- Serological testing for anti-HCV antibodies was performed.
- Populations studied included intravenous drug users, dialysis patients, nursing staff, serology technicians, prostitutes, and homosexual men (both HIV-infected and healthy).
Main Results:
- Intravenous drug users exhibited a high HCV seroprevalence (38/81).
- Dialysis patients, nursing staff, and serology technicians showed low HCV prevalence (5%, 0%, and 0% respectively).
- Prostitutes and homosexual men (healthy and HIV-infected) also demonstrated very low HCV seroprevalence (3.5%, 0.8%, 0.0% respectively).
Conclusions:
- Parenteral exposure is the most significant route for acquiring Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection.
- Sexual promiscuity, whether heterosexual or homosexual, is not associated with a high risk of HCV transmission.