Transmission of hepatitis B and C viruses--update.

Chronic infection with hepatitis B virus or hepatitis C virus, two common blood-borne pathogens, is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality. The prevalence of exposure to HCV among blood donors in Israel is estimated at 0.44±0.66% [1,2] and that of HBV at 0.4±0.88% [1]. Higher rates are observed among specific subpopulations [ 3]. Over the years, focus on the mode of transmission of these viruses shifted from the ``classic'' modes (transfusion, intravenous drug abuse, vertical transmission and sexual intercourse) to include nosocomial infection. Two articles highlighting this shift are published in IMAJ, one in the March issue and one in this issue.