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Review
. 2019 Mar;32(2):127-134.
doi: 10.1111/sdi.12761. Epub 2018 Dec 19.

Transmission of hepatitis C virus in the dialysis setting and strategies for its prevention

Duc B Nguyen  1 , Danae Bixler  1 , Priti R Patel  1
Affiliations
Review

Transmission of hepatitis C virus in the dialysis setting and strategies for its prevention

Duc B Nguyen et al. Semin Dial. 2019 Mar.

Abstract

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is more common among hemodialysis patients than the general population and transmission of HCV in dialysis clinics has been reported. In the context of the increased morbidity and mortality associated with HCV infection in the end stage renal disease population, it is important that dialysis clinics have processes in place for ensuring recommended infection control practices, including Standard Precautions, through regular audits and training of the staff. This review will summarize the epidemiology of HCV infection and risk factors for HCV transmission among hemodialysis patients. In addition, the proper protocols are required to investigate suspected cases of HCV transmission in dialysis facilities and recommendations for prevention of HCV transmission in will be reviewed.

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Conflict of interest statement

DISCLOSURES

D.B.N., D.B. and P.R.P. report no financial disclosures or conflicts.

Figures

FIGURE 1
FIGURE 1
Number of incident hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections from outbreaks in the United States dialysis facilities reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2008–2017
FIGURE 2
FIGURE 2
Algorithm to investigate an outbreak of hepatitis C virus infection when one or more new hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections are identified in a dialysis facility
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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