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Infections in British clinical laboratories, 1988-1989.
1University of Glasgow.
Journal of Clinical Pathology
|August 1, 1991
Summary
Laboratory staff experienced 18 infections, primarily Shigella and bowel infections, over 21,756 person-years. Tuberculosis and Brucella melitensis were also reported, with low hepatitis incidence suggesting reduced bloodborne infection risk.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology
- Laboratory Safety
Background:
- Laboratory personnel face risks of infection from various pathogens.
- Monitoring infection rates is crucial for assessing occupational hazards in healthcare settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the incidence and types of infections among laboratory staff.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of safety measures in preventing occupational infections.
Main Methods:
- A continuing survey conducted during 1988-89.
- Data collected from 166 laboratories, covering 21,756 person-years of exposure.
- Infection types and sources were documented.
Main Results:
- 18 infections were reported among laboratory staff.
- Shigella and other bowel infections predominated (11 cases), including one Salmonella typhi.
- Four cases of pulmonary tuberculosis and one Brucella melitensis infection were noted.
Conclusions:
- Bowel infections, particularly Shigella, represent a significant occupational risk.
- Low reported hepatitis incidence suggests effective control of bloodborne pathogens.
- Continued surveillance is necessary to ensure laboratory worker safety.