Bloodborne pathogens

Bloodborne Pathogens

Bloodborne pathogens (/ˈblʌdˌbɔːrn ˈpæθədʒənz/), from the English words "blood" and "borne" meaning carried by, and the Greek word "pathos" meaning suffering, are infectious microorganisms present in human blood that can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Types of Bloodborne Pathogens

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. It's spread when blood, semen, or other body fluid infected with the virus enters the body of a person who is not infected.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that causes liver inflammation, sometimes leading to serious liver damage. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) spreads through contaminated blood.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system. If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).

Transmission

Bloodborne pathogens are transmitted through contact with infected human blood and other potentially infectious materials (OPIM), such as:

Semen
Vaginal secretions
Cerebrospinal fluid
Synovial fluid
Pleural fluid
Peritoneal fluid
Amniotic fluid
Saliva in dental procedures
Any body fluid that is visibly contaminated with blood

Prevention

Prevention of bloodborne pathogens involves taking several precautions, such as:

Using personal protective equipment (PPE)
Getting vaccinated, especially for diseases such as hepatitis B
Following universal precautions for handling blood and OPIM
Using safer needle devices

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Bloodborne pathogens