Page 103 - 2020 ARE eGuide for Clinical at Nonhospital Sites

Blood-Borne Pathogens and Incubation Periods

HBV: Hepatitis B Virus

• The incubation period is 45-160 days with an average of 120 days
• Clinical symptoms and signs include loss of appetite, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal
pain, and jaundice (skin/eyes turn yellow). Skin rashes and joint pain can also occur. The urine
is frequently dark and the stool light
HIV: Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus

• Any febrile (fever) illness that occurs within 12 weeks after exposure, particularly characterized
by a rash or swollen glands, should be reported for appropriate evaluation
• Advancement to AIDS can take several years. Early recognition allows for appropriate
treatment to delay advancement

HCV: Hepatitis C Virus
• The risk of acquiring HCV occupationally is not as well defined as it is for HIV/HBV
• Estimates indicate 2-10% risk if infected blood is introduced through a blood exposure, for
example, a needle stick or splash. There is currently no vaccine to offer
• Incubation period ranges from 2 weeks to 6
months, commonly 6-9 weeks
• Clinical signs and symptoms include loss of
appetite, abdominal discomfort, nausea, and
vomiting. Progression to jaundice is less
frequent than with Hepatitis B
• Initial infection can be asymptomatic (in more
than 90% of cases) or mild with a high
percentage (between 50-80%) developing
chronic infection