What are Bloodborne Pathogens?

Introduction to Bloodborne Pathogens

Definition:

• Bloodborne pathogens are infectious microorganisms in human blood that can cause disease in humans.

Bloodborne pathogens are basically any germ or organism that resides in an infected person’s bloodstream. These pathogens may be transmitted by any substance that may contain blood, including sneeze droplets, urine, feces, seminal fluid and all other bodily fluids.

Most bloodborne pathogens do not cause immediate symptoms, but they can still be transmitted to other individuals. Furthermore, some bloodborne pathogens can result in death.

Examples of Bloodborne Pathogens:

• The most common bloodborne pathogens include:
  • Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): Leads to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
  • Hepatitis B Virus (HBV): Causes liver infection, which can become chronic and lead to liver failure or cancer.
  • Hepatitis C Virus (HCV): Often becomes a chronic condition and can lead to severe liver damage.

The symptoms of Hepatitis B and C include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and liver damage.

There is a vaccine available for Hepatitis B. If you have not been vaccinated previously, an employer is required to provide one if you may be exposed to Hepatitis B. This will depend on the location you are cleaning. It is part of the three-set series, and each dose must be spaced out by approximately one month. If you were born after 1991 you most likely received a vaccine at birth.

If you have started the series and failed to complete it, your employer may send you for a blood draw to verify the presence of Hepatitis B antibodies.

The symptoms of HIV infection can mirror many of the symptoms of the flu. However, general symptoms may include fatigue, appetite changes, unexplained fever and swollen glands. Moreover, HIV infection increases risk of contracting other diseases and developing acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Contact Does Not Always Equal Illness

The information about bloodborne pathogens can be disheartening, but exposure does not mean you become infected. Following proper protocols can help reduce your risk of infection.