Noscomial transmission of AIDS-related opportunistic infections

The nosocomial transmission of AIDS-related opportunistic infections has been highlighted by reports of transmission of tuberculosis from patient-to-patient and to health care workers. Nosocomial transmission of Cryptosporidium and scabies in AIDS units has also been reported. Opportunistic infections which may be transmitted person-to-person and have been documented in health care settings involving other immunocompromised populations include Pneumocystis carinii, Candida, salmonella, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus, varicella zoster virus, measles and parvovirus 819. Concurrent infections with other sexual or parenteral acquired blood-borne infections, including hepatitis B and C, also pose a risk for nosocomial transmission. The potential for nosocomial transmission of AIDS-related opportunistic infections and the implications for infection control will be discussed.