Guest guest Posted February 5, 2005 Report Share Posted February 5, 2005 Women offered Help LETTERS have been sent out to hundreds of women treated by a former health care worker who was found to have hepatitis C. The ex-Ayrshire and Arran member of staff is believed to be a surgeon who worked in obstetrics and gynaecology at Ayrshire Central and Crosshouse Hospitals from May 21, 1990 to June 9, 1991. Two years ago, 432 patients in Kent, Berkshire and Essex were tested as a precautionary measure following the discovery that the health professional had contracted hepatitis C. No positive cases were found but a patient from outside the notified group now has the hepatitis C virus. Former patients in Ayrshire and Arran are receiving information, advice, and the opportunity to have a blood test. A telephone helpline has been set up on 0870 0501999. Dr Maida Smellie, consultant in public health medicine, NHS Ayrshire & Arran, said: " Only certain operations carry an increased risk, such as Caesarian sections and hysterectomies. " I understand that this news may cause anxiety to some people, but I want to emphasise that the risk is very small, and that we are offering screening purely as a precaution. " In virtually every case the hepatitis C virus is transmitted by blood-to-blood contact. Ordinary social contact does not pose a risk. Hepatitis C is a virus. Some people who are infected with the virus may develop inflammation of the liver and any inflammation of this organ is known as hepatitis. http://icayrshire.icnetwork.co.uk/news/localnews/ayr/tm_objectid=15145914 & method\ =full & siteid=73592 & headline=women-offered-name_page.html Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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