Beaumont kidney patient positive for hepatitis B

More than 300 dialysis patients at Beaumont Hospital are to be tested for hepatitis B in the coming weeks after a person on dialysis there tested positive for the virus in routine screening.

A spokesman for the hospital said the case was unusual because the patient had tested negative for the virus before commencing dialysis. The positive sample appeared in the regular three-monthly test for the virus taken from every dialysis patient.

Following the positive test, the first sample taken from the patient was sent back to the National Virus Reference Laboratory for a more detailed examination.

This revealed that the patient had previously been exposed to the virus but it was dormant at the time of testing. "This is why the first test showed up negative," the spokesman said.

He said the likelihood of any cross infection having occurred as a result of this finding was relatively small. "We understand and regret the anxiety that asking patients to undergo additional testing causes but we would emphasise there is no cause for any undue concern.

"Our primary aim since we received this result has been to inform patients of the situation. Over the past two days, we have worked closely with the Health Service Executive and the National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL) on this issue," he said.

"Although the risk of cross infection is low, we have determined it prudent to trace back all potential exposures of patients and staff to this patient and, where appropriate, to test. All patients tests so far are negative".

He also stressed that the standard test used to detect the virus was in accordance with the most up-to-date Irish and UK guidelines. New renal dialysis patients are tested for hepatitis B & C before commencing their treatment.

Any patients seeking additional information or reassurance in relation to this is advised to contact Beaumont on 1800 202935.