Prevalence of Viral Hepatitis in the Staff in Norwegian Anaesthesiology Units

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Abstract
The prevalence of markers for present or past hepatitis B infection was studied in 1230 staff members of anesthesiology units throughout Norway. HBsAg [hepatitis B surface antigen] was not detected in any participants. The prevalence of antibodies against hepatitis B in the younger participants was similar to that in the control group, but was significantly increased among the older participants and in those with longer seniority in medical work. This was to some extent influenced by a fairly large number of staff members who had grown up or had had professional experience in countries with a higher prevalence of hepatitis B. The incidence of hepatitis B infections in anesthesiology units during the last 15 yr is very moderate. Relevant to the discussion of vaccination programs for these units are 3 reported cases of hepatitis B infections with a fatal outcome among Norwegian anesthesiologists, suggesting a greater severity of hepatitis B infections within this occupational group.

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