Viral hepatitis: epidemiologic, serologic and clinical manifestations

Prevalence of hepatitis B in an adult psychiatric hospital

The prevalence of hepatitis B infection among 697 patients in an adult psychiatric hospital was determined by testing for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and its antibody (anti-HBs). The test results were 0.86 per cent positive for HBsAG and 20 per cent positive for anti-HBs. This assessment of the prevalence of hepatitis B in a group of elderly long-term institutional patients may be used as a guide when hepatitis B vaccination is being considered for use in a psychiatric hospital. It is noteworthy that the elimination of overcrowding in psychiatric hospitals has contributed significantly to the decline of hepatitis B infection in recent years.

Hepatitis B virus: an overview for dentists

Hepatitis B has been singled out as a condition of special concern to dentists as it is frequently severe and debilitating. A review of the literature shows a significant and increasing risk of hepatitis among dentists, especially oral surgeons. Concern is directed toward dentists who contract the disease as well as those who transmit the infection.