Recommendations for Preventing Transmission of Infection with Human T-Lymphotropic Virus Type lll/Lymphadenopathy-Associated Virus During Invasive Procedures

Abstract

Previous recommendations on preventing the transmission of the human T-lymphotropic virus type III/ lymphadenopathy-associated virus (HTLV-III/LAV) in the workplace have emphasized health care settings. The current recommendations complement those previously discussed by listing specific guidelines to be followed by health care workers who perform or assist in operative, obstetric, and dental invasive procedures. All such health care workers should be educated about the epidemiology, transmission, and prevention of HTLV-III/LAV infection. All workers should use gloves and follow the appropriate barrier precautions during invasive procedures. Workers should use extraordinary care to prevent injuries to the hands caused by needles, scapels, and other sharp instruments. No serologic testing of health care workers involved in invasive procedures is indicated because the risk of transmission in this setting is so low. Although there have been no reports of HTLV-III/LAV transmission during an operative procedure, this situation warrants attention to these additional precautions.