Explainer |: Rising Health Concerns: An outbreak of Hepatitis C at Princess Margaret Hospital has triggered a detailed health probe, raising alarms about potential risks and transmission methods. Understanding the Threat: Hepatitis C is a viral infection known to impact the liver, leading to acute and chronic illnesses that can be life-threatening if left untreated. The virus spreads through contact with infected blood, highlighting the importance of safe medical procedures and needle usage. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, and yellowing of the skin and eyes. Incident at the Hospital: Following the case of a 24-year-old man testing positive for Hepatitis C after a hospital stay, concerns arose about the transmission methods within healthcare settings. Contact tracing efforts revealed potential exposure to other patients, emphasizing the need for rigorous preventive measures. Preventive Measures: Healthcare professionals stress the importance of proper needle disposal, training on transmission prevention, and regular screening for high-risk individuals. While no vaccine exists for Hepatitis C, early detection and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of severe liver damage. Similar Past Cases: Previous incidents like the MRSA cluster at Kwong Wah Hospital demonstrate the susceptibility of hospitals to disease outbreaks, urging strict infection control practices. Hospital environments, especially crowded ones, pose a high risk for disease transmission, necessitating heightened vigilance and preventive strategies. Conclusion: With a focus on improving infection control measures, raising awareness about transmission risks, and implementing stringent preventive protocols, the healthcare sector strives to safeguard patients from potential health threats like Hepatitis C.