The Hendra virus epidemic is creating new challenges for health care workers. Despite the extensive use of the hepatitis B vaccines, many health care workers are still at risk of contracting the disease. In fact, it has become so common that there is even a health risk label for Hepatitis B virus infection.

There is no vaccine or medication that can protect you as a healthcare worker. However, there are things you can do to help reduce your chances of being infected with the virus.

Hepatitis B can be spread by direct contact with infected body fluids or a contaminated object. One of the ways that this is possible is by touching an object that has the virus. Even if you don’t believe that you have Hepatitis B, you might have come into contact with an object that has been contaminated by someone who does.

The healthcare worker you are with will need to do more than just wipe the area with alcohol or water. Their hands need to be washed thoroughly. If they are wearing gloves, they should be changed every time they go in to work.

If you are a healthcare worker, you are advised to observe proper hand hygiene. Do not touch things with your hands; instead, you should pick up the object or speak to a patient. You should not put your hands in your mouth and then put the object back in your pocket. If you feel the need to, give the object to another patient to use or throw away.

During outbreaks, medical equipment should be sterilized before using. Some things that can transmit the virus include needles, thermometers, syringes, gloves, eyedropper, and intravenous lines. Some of these items can be cleaned and disinfected before use but it may take longer.

Even though it is important to keep all medical equipment sterile, it is also important to keep your hand dry. You should avoid wearing gloves and take frequent breaks to wipe your hands with a tissue or towel. If you must wear gloves, always wash them immediately after use.

Of course, a health care worker cannot be exposed to the virus if they are following proper protocol. They must wear protective clothing and keep their hands clean. These tasks can help to limit the chances of being infected with the virus.

It is also important to consider the personal habits of the healthcare worker. Some of the things that can be spread to others by health care workers include sharing personal items such as toothbrushes, bed sheets, and towels.

Not all patients are the same; some have very minimal signs and symptoms while others may have a huge risk of catching the virus. When you work with patients who are likely to have higher than normal risks of exposure, it is even more important to follow the prescribed protocols.

Not everything that you will do on the job will lead to an exposure to the virus; if you are exposed, you may only be putting yourself at a possible risk. The majority of healthcare workers do not know when an exposure occurs.

A hepatitis B vaccine is available for healthcare workers. But remember, as long as you continue to follow the protocol and keep your hands clean, there is no reason why you cannot avoid the virus.