The national opioid epidemic has driven a steady increase in hepatitis C virus, putting healthcare workers at risk of acquiring the bloodborne pathogen if they incur a needlestick. Although most infections in opioid users — primarily via sharing needles — are completely treatable, 14,000 people a year die of hepatitis C, according to the CDC.
With HCV Cases Climbing, Needlesticks Pose Risk
Barriers to treatment remain, but 95% of cases can be cleared
October 1, 2022