Introduction and objective:
Studies on occupational exposure to adverse conditions usually focus on professional groups, such as doctors, nurses and laboratory workers. Researchers have also drawn attention to the dangers threatening paramedics while performing their duties. The aim of this study is to analyze the occupational exposure of paramedics to hepatitis B and C viruses, to identify the activities during which occupational exposure occurs most frequently, and to analyze the possibility of protecting a paramedic from occupational exposure to infection.

Review methods:
The publication was prepared based on a literature review in available scientific information databases and on the websites of organizations operating in the field of public health.

Brief description of the state of knowledge:
In 2018, in Poland, 3,196 cases of HBV infection and 3,442 of HCV infection were registered. At present, viral hepatitis is most epidemiologically important in the context of infections related to the provision of health services by paramedics. It has been estimated that in health care workers, HBV and HCV infections during occupational activities represent 37.6% and 39% of all infections, respectively. Observations of Polish researchers show that 24.1% of paramedics have experienced a sharp injury during 12 months of work. The study of knowledge concerning post-exposure management of potentially infectious material revealed that 32% of rescuers could not name more than one stage of action to prevent blood-borne infections.

Summary:
Researchers highlight the lack of adequate knowledge of paramedics regarding blood-borne viruses and occupational exposure. Results and conclusions published to-date indicate local needs in health care facilities, but above all, they can be the basis for targeted systemic actions in the prevention of HBV and HCV infections.