Razorblades and Toothbrushes May Transmit Hepatitis B Virus

The 46th Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy probed on the possibility of Hepatitis B infection with the use of equipments that can come in contact with blood such as razorblades, toothbrushes, etc.

In a surveillance research conducted on barber shops in Turkey, it was found out that "hepatitis B DNA was detected on almost 8% of the razors collected". This fact highlighted another possibility of transmission route of Hepatitis B and other strains.

Furthermore, the conference stresses "the importance of not sharing household objects such as razors toothbrushes, and nail clippers, as this can create the possibility for transmission (Can Razor Blades Transmit Hepatitis B Virus?: HIVandHepatitis.com)

I am particulary wary on the possibility of HBV transmission in the Philippines for a lot of local barber shops and salons offering haircut and manicure/pedicure services are not aware on the health dangers that used razorblades can bring to all of their customers. I just hope that local officials would make the initial move to draft a resolution or city ordinance to stop the practice of using used razorblades and sterilize manicure/pedicure articles before using them to their customers.

Below are just some of the most preventive measures against Hepatitis B infection which are taken from Hepatitis B Organization.

Hepatitis B is a vaccine-preventable disease. There is a safe and effective vaccine to protect infants, children and adults from hepatitis B. Billions of doses have been given worldwide. Learn more.

All sex partners, family and close household members of a chronically infected person should be screened and vaccinated. Reassure patients and families that hepatitis B is not casually transmitted - it is spread through blood, not by coughing, sneezing, hugging or sharing food.

Additional Prevention Measures
In addition to vaccination, there are other simple ways to help stop the spread of hepatitis B:

• Wash your hands thoroughly after any potential exposure
• Practice safe sex with all partners
• Avoid direct contact with blood and bodily fluids
• Clean up blood spills with a fresh diluted bleach solution
• Cover all cuts carefully
• Avoid sharing sharp items such as razors, nail clippers, toothbrushes, and earrings or body rings
• Discard sanitary napkins and tampons into plastic bags
• Avoid illegal street drugs (injecting, inhaling, snorting, popping pills)
• Do not donate blood or body organs
• Make sure new, sterile needles are used for ear or body piercing, tattoos, and acupuncture

For more information, please visit the following refrence websites:

HIVandHepatitis.com
Hepatitis B Organization


Julius