Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms found in human blood that can infect and cause disease in people exposed to blood containing the pathogen. Exposure to bloodborne pathogens can result in contracting Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) or Hepatitis B, as these micro-organisms can be transmitted through contact with contaminated blood and body fluids.
Bloodborne pathogens include, but are not limited to:
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
- Hepatitis B (HBV)
- Hepatitis C (HCV)
- Non A, Non B Hepatitis
- Syphilis
- Malaria
- Babesiosis
- Brucellosis
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, more commonly known as AIDS. AIDS was first reported in the United States in 1981, and since then has become a major worldwide problem. HIV is passed from one person to another via blood-to-blood and sexual contact. Pregnant women infected with HIV can also pass the virus to their babies during pregnancy or delivery, and through breast-feeding.
Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV)
Acute viral hepatitis is a common and sometimes serious infection of the liver which can lead to inflammation and necrosis. There are at least five viral agents that cause acute viral hepatitis. These are:
- HAV (Hepatitis A)
- HBV (Hepatitis B)
- HDV (delta)
- HCV (Hepatitis C)
- HEV (an enterally transmitted non A, non B hepatitis agent)
- Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)
An estimated 1.25 million Americans are chronically infected with the Hepatitis B virus, and about 20-30% of those infected acquired the infection during childhood. A Hepatitis B vaccine has been available since 1982, and routine Hepatitis B vaccinations have greatly reduced the rate of disease among children and adolescents.
Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens
Bloodborne pathogens are transmitted when contaminated blood or body fluids enter the body of another person. In the workplace, transmission is most likely to occur via an accidental puncture from a sharp object, such as a needle, broken glass, or other item contaminated with the pathogen; contact between broken or damaged skin and infected body fluids or contact between mucous membranes and infected body fluids. Unbroken skin forms an impervious barrier against bloodborne pathogens. However, infected blood or body fluids can enter your system percutaneously through open sores, cuts or abrasions.
How to Avoid Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens
The Bloodborne Pathogen Standard requires all employers to develop an Exposure Control Plan and ensure this is accessible to all employees. The plan should be written and outline the tasks and procedures, along with job classifications, where occupational exposure to blood may occur without employees having personal protective clothing and equipment. The plan must also establish a schedule for the employer to implement other provisions according to the standard, and specify the procedure for evaluating circumstances surrounding any exposure incidents.
Other sensible measures you can take include:
- Washing your hands. This is one of the simplest, and most effective practices to prevent the transmission of bloodborne pathogens.
- Using personal protective equipment. This includes gloves, face masks, eye protection, protective gowns and other protective clothing.
References:
Join the Conversation