The concerning micro-organisms

Question 1

HIV

Answer 1

a viral infection that destroys the body’s leucocytes, weakening the immune system and leaving them unable to fight diseases naturally. They eventually develop AIDS which is fatal and holds no vaccine

Question 2

Hepatitis B

Answer 2

a viral infection causing liver inflammation which is often fatal. All dental staff must be immunised against

Question 3

Hepatitis C

Answer 3

similar virus but more likely to be fatal and holds no vaccine

Question 4

Herpes simplex type 1

Answer 4

a viral infection affecting the lips and oral cavity, not fatal but highly contagious when ‘cold sore’ lesions are present on the lips. Any patient attending with an active cold sore should not be dentally treated except in an emergency. The lesion will diminish within 10 days

Question 5

MMR

Answer 5

the virus is present in saliva before any signs of illness are apparent. if any evidence of contact, appropriate questioning of parents will allow the dentist to assess the risk and whether to postpone trt. If rubella occurs in first 3 months of pregnancy, it can affect the unborn child. Adult males are most at risk from mumps as it may cause sterility