Transmission and risk factors: Occupational transmission

Occupational transmission This image shows a kidney bowl containing used needles, syringes and empty bottles. These were used to immunize children at a maternal and child health clinic. The careful disposal of needles and syringes is essential to prevent accidental needlestick injuries and possible transmission of HIV infection. Sharps disposal boxes are a safe method of disposal and help to prevent occupational HIV transmission. The risk of acquiring HIV infection following a needlestick injury with a needle used on an HIV-infected person is about 0.5%. Management guidelines should be available at any centre where a needlestick injury might occur.