Acute Hepatitis C Outbreak in a Hemodialysis Unit, Northern Taiwan, 2025

DOI: 10.6524/EB.202608_42(15).0001

Hsun-Yen Hsieh^1*, Yi-Ting Yang¹, Wei-Lun Huang², Yan-Yi Li¹, Wan-Lin Hsu¹, Hsiao-Ping Tung¹, Shih-Hao Liu1

2026 Vol.42 NO.15

Correspondence Author： Hsun-Yen Hsieh^1*

Abstract：

        In January 2025, a hemodialysis unit of a hospital in northern Taiwan reported two confirmed cases of acute hepatitis C. Viral nucleic acid sequencing conducted by the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control’s Center for Diagnostics and Vaccine Development showed that both isolates were of the same genotype, indicating a hepatitis C cluster. On-site investigation by infection control experts identified several gaps in infection control practices, including the absence of a physical barrier separating zones for patients with hepatitis B or C from those without hepatitis, which created cross-zone exposure risks; staff providing care across different zones; and the use of the same mobile cart for both medication preparation and blood collection. These factors raised strong suspicion of transmission occurring during healthcare worker–mediated care. Following intervention by local health authorities and experts, and the implementation of strengthened infection control measures, no additional cases were detected through July 2025. This outbreak highlights the importance of strict adherence to infection control measures in hemodialysis units, proper cleaning and disinfection of the dialysis unit environment, and routine hepatitis C surveillance of hemodialysis patients.