The Risk of Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus Using Jet Injection in Inoculation

Abstract

In 2 patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, the injection sites and injector nozzles were evaluated for contamination with HBV-associated antigens. Both patients were positive for hepatitis B surface (HBsAg) and e antigens and antibody to hepatitis B core antigen and negative for antibody to HBsAg. The samples taken from the injection sites and nozzle surfaces for each patient were negative for these markers. Thus, the risk of contaminating surfaces of injector nozzles during their use in HBV-infected persons and the subsequent transmission of the virus to other patients appear minimal.