Prevention of occupational infectious diseases by compliance with universal precautions

In the last decade, multiresistant infectious agents and new infectious dis eases have led to a reappraisal of their respective morbidity and mortality . In the medical field, hepatitis B and C, acquired immunodeficiency, and t uberculosis are currently the most important occupational infectious diseas es. As therapeutic options are limited, their prevention becomes of utmost importance. In order to minimize personal exposure, it is important to appl y general preventive strategies, as formulated in the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard. So far, compliance with,,Universal Precautions" has not always be en substantial. Improving compliance is a challenge for both health care wo rkers and administrators.