[Frequency of asymptomatic C viral infections in children referred to hospital treatment for various reasons].

In 2221 children aged 0.468-17.580 (56% boys and 44% girls) referred to hospital treatment for various reasons, antibodies anti HCV were determined with 3rd Generation Axsym (Abbott) test. In 3% (66/221) children the result was positive. Significant increase in the frequency of anti HCV occurrence was observed in children over 6, especially in 9, 10 and 11 years old--54% (36/66). Children anti HCV positive came mainly from large cities: 83% (55/66). Risk factors are presumed to be firstly blood sampling in out-patient clinics 34.8% (23/66) and hospitalization 22.7% (15/66), then dental procedures 18.2 (12/66), hairdressing and cosmetic procedures (tattoo and ear pricking) 12.1% (8/66). The authors point at the necessity of control in institutions performing such procedures as well as the need of sanitary education among medical personnel and school children in the period of hepatotropic viral infections.