Occupational disease
Occupational hepatitis C
Apr
Viral hepatitis has become one of the most common infectious diseases worldwide, including in Vietnam. To date, six main types of viruses causing hepatitis have been identified and named A, B, C, D, E, and G. Among these six types, the hepatitis C virus attracts the most attention due to its transmission characteristics.
Occupational hepatitis C is a serious liver disease, especially in professional settings. Occupations related to healthcare, police, and other high-risk fields face a higher risk of hepatitis C virus infection. Preventing and controlling this disease in the workplace is crucial to protect workers’ health and minimize the risk of community transmission.
1. What is occupational hepatitis C?
Occupational hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) acquired during work.
Chronic hepatitis C can progress to severe forms and may cause fulminant hepatitis. Occupational hepatitis C is a dangerous disease that can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer.
2. Occupations at risk of hepatitis C
Common occupations and sources of exposure include:
- Healthcare workers.
- Prison guards and supervisors.
- Police officers.
- Other professions exposed to the hepatitis C virus.
3. Mechanism and causes of hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is transmitted from person to person through contact with blood or plasma, or contaminated injection instruments.
The hepatitis C virus can also affect the immune system, reducing certain immune cells, causing immune suppression, and increasing susceptibility to other infections.
Discover the Occupational Hepatitis C Risk Assessment Tool, a comprehensive tool designed for workplace hepatitis C, which evaluates risks and provides safety recommendations. With multidimensional data and advanced algorithms, it is a reliable source for healthcare professionals and safety managers to protect employees’ health and maintain a safe work environment.
4. Symptoms of hepatitis C
Symptoms of occupational hepatitis C may vary depending on liver damage, but common signs include:
- Hepatitis C develops silently with almost no symptoms in the acute stage. Possible vague symptoms include fatigue, loss of appetite, bloating, mild pain in the right hypochondrium, digestive disorders, and muscle aches.
- Mild jaundice may appear intermittently, along with fever and weight loss.
- Extrahepatic manifestations may affect muscles, skin, mucous membranes, endocrine system, kidneys, digestive system, and cardiovascular system.
Advanced stages may result in cirrhosis, liver cancer, gastrointestinal bleeding, and kidney dysfunction. Many cases are asymptomatic and discovered only during routine medical checks or other clinical symptoms.
5. Complications of hepatitis C
If untreated, hepatitis C may lead to:
- Chronic hepatitis.
- Cirrhosis and liver cell failure.
- Liver cancer or fulminant hepatitis causing death.
6. Protective equipment to prevent occupational hepatitis C
Occupational hepatitis C is caused by HCV and can cause severe liver problems. Healthcare workers, medical industry workers, and rescue personnel exposed to blood and bodily fluids must wear protective equipment to prevent infection.
Necessary protective equipment includes:
- Protective clothing.
- Protective gloves made from impermeable and chemical-resistant materials.
- Safety goggles.
- Masks or respirators.
- Protective shoes.
- Safety helmets.
Proper usage and adherence to hygiene protocols, including handling medical waste, handwashing, and using disinfectants, are essential.
7. Compensation for workers with hepatitis C
In Vietnam, according to the Social Insurance Law, workers with hepatitis C may receive compensation through health insurance and social insurance. Compensation depends on proving the link between the disease and the job. Occupational disease cases are compensated according to legal regulations. Evidence and medical testing are necessary to establish the connection. Additional regulations may apply based on the profession or organization.
8. Treatment of hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is treatable, and treatment options include:
- Antiviral medications to block virus replication under medical supervision.
- Supportive treatment for complications like cirrhosis or liver cancer, including blood transfusions if needed.
- Symptom management to reduce abdominal pain, fatigue, and joint discomfort.
- Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, healthy diet, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and stress reduction.
Treatment should be prescribed and monitored by specialists for optimal recovery and complication prevention.
9. Prevention of occupational hepatitis C
Preventive measures include:
- Proper use of protective equipment such as masks, gloves, coats, and other protective gear.
- Personal hygiene, handwashing, not sharing personal items or unsterilized needles.
- Routine health checks and monitoring for early detection.
- Education to raise awareness among employees about risks and preventive measures.
10. Employer responsibilities in preventing hepatitis C
Employers should:
- Provide safe working conditions and sufficient protective equipment.
- Maintain hygiene measures to reduce infection risks, including proper medical waste management.
- Train employees on prevention measures.
- Conduct regular health checks for staff.
- Perform occupational environment monitoring and report results to improve workplace safety.
11. National occupational environment monitoring center
Nam Viet Occupational Environment Monitoring Center is a professional unit specializing in monitoring and measuring workplace environmental quality across all provinces in Vietnam. Experienced monitoring specialists use modern equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability.
REGISTER FOR OCCUPATIONAL ENVIRONMENT MONITORING SERVICE
The center also provides planning, processing, and follow-up support. With a customer-centric approach, it aims to satisfy client needs with optimal solutions.
- We value brand reputation and service quality.
- We provide the best and most suitable solutions to customers.
- Our team of experienced Masters and Engineers aims to protect the environment and benefit enterprises.
- Nam Viet clients receive professional service with experts in monitoring and cost advantages.
12. Occupational environment monitoring pricing
Nam Viet provides professional and reasonably priced monitoring service rates for enterprises.
- Detailed pricing for monitoring services, including transportation, measurement, analysis, and reporting. Reliable results are guaranteed.
- Competitive and fair pricing, with fast and professional consultation available.
- Flexible service packages to meet customer needs, ensuring satisfaction with professional quality services.
