Infectious Diseases Module 3: Viral Infections

Jul 21, 2024

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Infectious Diseases Module 3: Viral Infections

Bloodborne Pathogens

  • Key Pathogens: Hep B, Hep C, HIV
  • Regulatory Bodies:
    • OSHA: Sets standards for safety and health administration exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
    • CDC: Provides guidelines for infected healthcare workers.

Standard Precautions

  • Assume everyone is at risk of transmission.
  • Avoid unnecessary procedures.
  • Notify Physician of infection status before invasive procedures.
  • Example: Conducting blood draws with proper PPE and disposal of needles in Sharps Containers.
  • Resources: CDC pamphlets on protection and procedures after exposure.

HBV (Hepatitis B Virus)

  • Transmission: Percutaneous injury/contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. Can survive up to 1 week on surfaces.
  • Incubation Period: 45-180 days.
  • Prevention: Vaccination available; use of PPE and sanitary measures.
  • Post Exposure: HBsAg testing, prophylactic treatment if needed; adhere to OSHA precautions.

HCV (Hepatitis C Virus)

  • Transmission: Healthcare workers through continuous injury.
  • Incubation Period: 6-7 weeks.
  • Symptoms: Chronic infection; liver issues like cirrhosis, carcinoma.
  • Prevention: No vaccine; standard precautions, proper disposal of Sharps.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

  • Transmission: Percutaneous injury or mucous exposure to blood and bodily fluids.
  • Prevention: Use retractable needles, proper disposal in Sharps Container.
  • Post Exposure: Seek counseling, baseline and follow-up testing, start antivirals, wash contaminated area immediately.
  • Prevention: Hand washing, standard precautions, barriers.

Herpes Virus

  • Types: Eight types, mainly HSV-1 and HSV-2.
  • Transmission: Direct contact of mucosal membranes.
  • Symptoms: Lesions, fever, malaise, muscle aches.
  • Prevention: Standard precautions, hand hygiene; no vaccine.

Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV)

  • Conditions: Chickenpox, Shingles.
  • Transmission: Airborne droplets, direct contact.
  • Incubation Period: 14-16 days.
  • Prevention: Vaccination, proper sanitation.
  • Symptoms: Fever, malaise, itchy vesicles.

Mononucleosis

  • Virus: Epstein-Barr Virus (Type 4 Herpes).
  • Transmission: Oral secretions, blood.
  • Incubation Period: 4-6 weeks.
  • Symptoms: Fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue.
  • Prevention: Standard precautions, avoid sharing drinks/utensils.

Influenza (Flu)

  • Types: Influenza A, B.
  • Transmission: Person-to-person, inhalation, direct contact.
  • Incubation Period: 1-4 days.
  • Prevention: Vaccination recommended for >6 months old, high-risk groups, hand hygiene.
  • Symptoms: High fever, myalgia, headache, sore throat, congestion, nausea.
  • Treatment: Antivirals within 48 hours, supportive therapy.

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)

  • At Risk: Infants, elderly, immunocompromised.
  • Incubation Period: 3-8 days.
  • Symptoms: Stuffy nose, cough, fever, wheezing, difficulty breathing.
  • Prevention: Hand hygiene, droplet precautions.

SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)

  • Transmission: Direct or indirect contact, droplets.
  • Incubation Period: 6-7 days.
  • Symptoms: Cough, shortness of breath, fever, muscle pain, loss of taste/smell.
  • Treatment: Antimalarials, symptom-based treatment, rest, and movement.
  • Prevention: Hand hygiene, droplet precautions.

Note: Always maintain standard precautions to prevent bacterial and viral infections.