Blood Bourne Pathogens are microorganisms (such as viruses) that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Bodily fluids, especially those visibly contaminated with blood, have the potential to transmit disease
- Cerebrospinal fluid (Brain) and Synovial fluid (Joints)
- Pleural fluid (Lungs) and Amniotic fluid (Uterus)
- Pericardial fluid (Heart) and Peritoneal fluid (Abdomen)
- Semen and vaginal secretions
- Blood and any body fluid contaminated with blood
- Body fluids that cannot be recognised
How Blood Bourne Pathogens Are Spread
- Sexual contact is the primary mode of transmission for Blood Bourne Pathogens
- When a contaminated sharp object cuts or punctures the skin. (Parenteral examples: needle stick, illegal drug usage, cut from broken glass, bite)
- When an infected body fluid gets into an open cut or mucous membrane (inside eyes, mouth, ears or nose)
- When a contaminated object touches inflamed skin, acne, or skin abrasion
- Intact skin is wonderfully created as our first defence against disease. Blood Bourne Pathogens cannot “soak” through normal intact skin
Coming soon our new video based e-learning course on blood bourne pathogens