Blood-borne viruses (BBVs) are a group of viruses transmitted through contact with infected blood or specific bodily fluids. These viruses can lead to serious health problems, including liver damage. Conversations around BBVs are important in reducing stigma ensuring that individuals know that testing and treatment is available.
Common BBVs
Hepatitis B (HBV): can cause inflammation and damage to the liver
Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A is a liver infection that’s spread in the poo of an infected person. The chance of getting it in the UK is low
Hepatitis C (HCV): HCV primarily affects the liver and can lead to infection and liver failure
Human Immunodeficiency Virus HIV: HIV attacks the body's immune system
Preventing transmission of BBVs
Safer sex: condom use during vaginal, anal and oral sex significantly reduces the risk of BBV transmission, including HIV.
PrEP (for HIV prevention) pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medication that significantly reduces the risk of contracting HIV through sex for people who are HIV-negative but at high risk, when used properly. This is only available from sexual health services, such as Sandyford
PEP: Post exposure prophylaxis is medication that can be taken if someone thinks that they have been exposed to HIV. PEP is available from sexual health services and also from A&E departments.
Safer injecting practices: for people who inject drugs, sharing needles and other injecting equipment is a major risk factor for BBVs. Harm reduction services offer sterile injecting equipment and advice on safer injecting practices
Vaccinations are available for Hep A and Hep B.
HIV Transmission Elimination Toolkit: HIV Transmission Elimination ToolkitThis toolkit is available for use by all healthcare practitioners via the RDS app or website and provides the opportunity to host relevant national documents, guidance and protocols within one place.
GGC - Sexual Health - Supporting Adult Service Users with Relationships, Sexual Health and Sexual Wellbeing - IN DEVELOPMENT
