Occupational infection with hepatitis C virus in the healthcare setting.

Our understanding of the types of hepatitis described previously as non-A, non-B hepatitis has been revolutionized by the discovery of two new viruses, hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis E virus. HCV is transmitted parenterally, and poses a potential occupational hazard to health care workers, including dental staff. No vaccine is currently available, and it is important that an assessment of infection risk is made available to clinicians.