[Nosocomial transmission of viruses to pregnant women by infected medical personnel].

Virus-infected medical personnel under certain circumstances might represent a risk for pregnant women. With regard to such nosocomial provider-to-patient transmissions, the pathogens rubella virus, herpes viruses and the hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses are of particular concern. It will become clear from the following short communication that in this context one should strive to achieve optimal protection for the expectant mothers without restricting the professional activities of virus-infected members of the medical staff in an unjustified way. In this respect it always has to be kept in mind that the risk of provider-to-patient transmissions of viruses in obstetrics and neonatology can be significantly reduced by vaccinating all personnel working in these departments against infections by the rubella, varicella-zoster, and hepatitis B viruses, and that additional strict adherence to so-called universal hygienic precautions will add more than an incremental benefit.