Infectious diseases

Question 1

Hepatitis C post-exposure prophylaxis

Answer 1

monthly PCR
if seroconversion then interferon +/- ribavirin

Question 2

Hep B post-exposure prophylaxis
known HBsAg positive

Answer 2

if known responder to the HBV vaccine -> booster dose
if non-responder (anti-HBs < 10mIU/ml 1-2 months post-immunisation) -> hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) and a booster vaccine

Question 3

Hep B post-exposure prophylaxis
unknown if positive or not

Answer 3

if known responders the HBV vaccine -> consider a booster dose
if known non-responders -> HBIG + vaccine
in process of being vaccinated-> accelerated course of HBV vaccine

Question 4

HIV post-exposure prophylaxis

Answer 4

a combination of oral antiretrovirals (e.g. Tenofovir, emtricitabine, lopinavir and ritonavir) ASAP (i.e. Within 1-2 hours, but may be started up to 72 hours following exposure) for FOUR WEEKS
serological testing at 12 weeks
reduces risk of transmission by 80%