Brenda Thompson, BA¹, Kattrina Hancy, BA¹, Ismael R. Ortega-Sanchez, PhD², Pedro Moro, MD, MPH², and Robert T Chen, MD, MA³. (1) Rollins School of Public Health, International Health Department, Emory University and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1518 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, GA 30322, 360 825 5201, bkthomp@sph.emory.edu, (2) National Immunization Program, ESD, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road NE, MS E-61, Atlanta, GA 30333, (3) National Immunization Program, CDC, 1600 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30333

INTRODUCTION Needlestick injuries (NSI) among healthcare workers are common. We examined the frequency of NSI in Mexico City among another occupational group at potential risk: sanitation workers.

METHODS In July and August 2003, a convenience sample of 69 sanitation workers was selected from 13 of 16 Mexico City districts. Workers were interviewed to determine the frequency of finding syringes in the trash, frequency of sustaining NSI at work, vaccination status and health care seeking practices. Sanitation workers were interviewed during their daily rounds, while working or while on break.

RESULTS Fifty of 69 workers (82%) are municipal employees (some households pay independent workers directly). The median number of years on the job was 12. Sixty-six of 69 (96%) workers had seen syringes in trash, and 38 (55%) had been stuck at least once while working. A total of 14 NSI were reported in the prior month by 7 (18%) of the workers (including some with multiple NSI), while 22 NSI occurred in the prior year among 13 (34%) workers. Six of 31 (19%) respondents reported seeking medical care after NSI. Only 3 (5%) reported vaccination against hepatitis B. Syringes were most frequently seen in residential areas, the location stated by fifty-six workers (85% of those who have seen syringes).

CONCLUSIONS This preliminary study suggests sanitation workers in Mexico City experience a high frequency of NSIs. Their low hepatitis B vaccination rate and poor medical care after NSI puts this occupational group at potentially high risk of acquiring bloodborne diseases.

Learning Objectives: After viewing this poster, attendees will be able to

• Identify occupational risk of needlesticks among sanitation workers in Mexico City.
• Describe the aspects of this particular job and social environment which places these workers at risk.
• Discuss possible interventions and/or future research that could direct appropriate interventions.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.