Where is the hepatitis B virus found and how is it transmitted?
Blood is the major source of the hepatitis B virus in the workplace. It can also be found in other tissues and body fluids, but in much lower concentrations. The risk of transmission varies according to the specific source. The virus can survive outside the body for at least 7 days and still able to cause infection. Blood Direct contact with infected blood can transmit the hepatitis B virus through: • punctures of the skin with blood-contaminated needles, lancets, scalpels, or other sharps • splashes to skin bearing minute scratches, abrasions, burns, or even minor rashes • splashes to mucous membranes in the mouth, nose, or eyes To a lesser extent, indirect contact with blood-contaminated surfaces can also transmit the hepatitis B virus. The virus may be stable in dried blood for up to 7 days at 25?C. Hand contact with blood-contaminated surfaces such as laboratory benches, test tubes, or laboratory instruments may transfer the virus to skin or mucous membranes. Saliva Saliva of peopl
Blood is the major source of the hepatitis B virus in the workplace. It can also be found in other tissues and body fluids, but in much lower concentrations. The risk of transmission varies according to the specific source. The virus can survive outside the body for at least 7 days and still able to cause infection. Blood Direct contact with infected blood can transmit the hepatitis B virus through: • punctures of the skin with blood-contaminated needles, lancets, scalpels, or other sharps • splashes to skin bearing minute scratches, abrasions, burns, or even minor rashes • splashes to mucous membranes in the mouth, nose, or eyes To a lesser extent, indirect contact with blood-contaminated surfaces can also transmit the hepatitis B virus. The virus may be stable in dried blood for up to 7 days at 25°C. Hand contact with blood-contaminated surfaces such as laboratory benches, test tubes, or laboratory instruments may transfer the virus to skin or mucous membranes. Saliva Saliva of peopl
