Blood borne infections in looked after children

摘要

HIV, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis are uncommon but important problems in looked after children in the UK. Social risk factors that increase the likelihood of children being looked after also increase both the probability of in utero exposure to blood borne infections, and the probability of poor access to testing and measures to prevent infection. All looked after children should have an assessment of their risk of exposure to blood-borne infections and be tested if appropriate. Interpretation of blood tests requires special consideration in infants, who may test falsely positive due to maternal antibody. Older children should also be offered testing after possible sexual or other exposure. Children from abroad, including unaccompanied asylum seeking children should be tested for blood-borne viruses as part of a comprehensive assessment.