Hepatitis B and vaccination in emergency physicians.

The seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) markers in emergency physicians has been shown to be approximately 13%, roughly three times the prevalence in the general population. Frequent contact with blood and body secretions of potentially infectious patients undoubtedly is a major factor in the increased seroprevalence and risk of hepatitis B. The potential sequelae of HBV infection include chronic active hepatitis, cirrhosis, primary hepatocellular carcinoma, and development of the chronic carrier state, any of which may have a devastating impact on the personal health and professional career of the emergency physician. A vaccine against hepatitis B has been available since 1982 and has been found to be effective in approximately 90% of vaccinees. The vaccine is generally well tolerated; the most common side effects are reactions at the injection site, although systemic side effects may occur. The risk of serious illness due to the vaccine is very low. Using a risk/benefit analysis to assess the risks of hepatitis B and the risks and benefits of HBV vaccination, it is clear that HBV vaccination should be accepted by the emergency physician to minimize the risk of contracting hepatitis B.