Staying Healthy in Child Care - National Health and Medical ...

Hepatitis B
Description
Hepatitis B infection is caused by the hepatitis B virus. The virus is found mainly in
the blood of an infected person and, to a lesser extent, in some other body fluids (for
example, semen). It is not spread through food or water or through ordinary social
contact.
Women who have this disease during pregnancy may transmit it to their newborn
babies. Many of these babies become long-term carriers of the virus.
About 50% of adults and 90% of children do not develop any symptoms at the time of
infection 104 . Symptoms, if they occur, may include abdominal discomfort, loss of
appetite, nausea, fever, tiredness, joint pain, dark urine and yellow skin or eyes
(jaundice).
Incubation period
2–6 months.
Infectious period
From about one month before jaundice occurs to the end of the time when they feel
ill, (about 1–3 months after jaundice appears). People with chronic hepatitis B may
carry the virus for life and always be able to infect others.
Exclusion period
Nil.
Responsibilities of child care providers/staff
Report the infection to the director.
Responsibilities of parents
If the child feels unwell, they should remain at home until they feel better.
Controlling the spread of infection
Effective vaccines are available, and are now routinely given at birth, 2, 4 and 6
months of age. A course of 3 injections over 6 months can be given at other ages for
people who have not previously been vaccinated. Completion of a full course of
vaccine will give protection against hepatitis B infection in over 90% of people 105 .
Hepatitis B immunoglobulin is offered to non-immune people having close contact
with a person known to be infected with hepatitis B in the following situations:
• after birth
• after needle sharing or needlestick injury
• after sexual exposure
Take precautions when handling blood-contaminated items. More information on this
subject is given on page 28.
Re-emphasise good hand washing and cleaning practices.
130
Draft for Public Consultation