Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)

Please click the frequently asked questions below for further information and IPC precautions required:

• What is H. pylori?

  H. pylori is recognized as one of the most common chronic bacterial infections worldwide, and about two-thirds of the world’s population is infected; it is more common in developing countries. Short-term travellers appear to be at low risk of acquiring H. pylori through travel, but expatriates and long-stay travellers could be at greater risk.

• Why is this information important?

  If NIAS staff are aware that the patient has a suspected or confirmed case this should be communicated to the Control Room (Emergency or Non-emergency as appropriate) and the staff in the receiving unit when transferring the patient to ensure effective patient care and management.

• How is it spread?

  H. pylori bacteria are usually passed from person to person through direct contact with saliva, vomit or stool. H. pylori may also be spread through contaminated food or water.

• What are the symptoms?

  Most people with H. pylori infection will never have any signs or symptoms. It’s not clear why many people don’t have symptoms. But some people may be born with more resistance to the harmful effects of H. pylori.

  When signs or symptoms do occur with H. pylori infection, they are typically related to gastritis or a peptic ulcer and may include:

  • An ache or burning pain in your stomach (abdomen)
  • Stomach pain that may be worse when your stomach is empty
  • Nausea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Frequent burping
  • Bloating
  • Unintentional weight loss
• IPC Precautions
  • Standard Precautions should be used.
  • Hand Hygiene should be completed as per the 5 moments in line with usual practice.
  • Eye protection should be risk assessed for any concern regarding a splash risk.
  • Gloves and Aprons should be risk assessed and worn if contact with the patient’s blood or bodily fluids.
  • Laundry should be treated as per usual local policy.
• What cleaning is required?

  All equipment and the ambulance should have an in-between patient clean paying particular attention to touch points.

• Do staff need any prophylaxis or follow up?

  No active follow up required.