Transmission of type B viral hepatitis via eye inoculation of a chimpanzee.

ABSTRACT

To simulate a splash of infectious material in the eyes, plasma from a hepatitis B patient was placed on the corneal surfaces of a chimpanzee. The animal became infected 9 weeks later. This result indicates a need for the use of eye protection in high-risk areas, such as clinical laboratories, hemodialysis units, and dental operatories.