What are Bloodborne Pathogens?
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| Chapters | 7 |
|---|---|
| CE Credits | 2.0 |
| Validity | 1 Year |
| Cost | $9.95 |
| Duration | 1-2 Hrs |
| ECC | Compliant |
| Exam Attempts | Unlimited |
| Wallet Card | Download/Print/Mail |
Chapter 2: What Are Bloodborne Pathogens?
In this chapter of your Bloodborne Pathogens Certification Course, we’ll introduce what bloodborne pathogens are, where they’re found, and how they can affect your health. This knowledge is the foundation for protecting yourself and others when exposure risks are present.
Understanding Bloodborne Pathogens (BBPs)
Bloodborne Pathogens (BBPs) are microorganisms, such as viruses or bacteria, that are carried in human blood and certain body fluids. They can cause serious illness—and in some cases, death.
Some examples of BBPs include:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV)
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV)
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
In healthcare and workplace settings, knowing how these viruses spread—and how to reduce exposure—is key to prevention.
Where BBPs Are Found: OPIM
BBPs don’t just live in blood. They can also be present in other potentially infectious materials (OPIM), such as:
Semen
- Vaginal secretions
- Cerebrospinal fluid (brain)
- Synovial fluid (joints)
- Pleural fluid (lungs)
- Pericardial fluid (heart)
- Peritoneal fluid (abdomen)
- Amniotic fluid (uterus)
- Saliva (especially during dental procedures)
- Unfixed human tissues or organs
- Any body fluid visibly contaminated with blood
- Any fluid that can’t be clearly identified
Understanding these sources helps reduce accidental exposure in real-world settings.
HIV: Human Immunodeficiency Virus
HIV is a virus that weakens the immune system by attacking infection-fighting cells called T-cells. Over time, the body becomes less able to defend itself, even from everyday infections.
If left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). According to the World Health Organization, over 35 million people have died from AIDS-related causes since the disease was first recognized.
Symptoms of HIV may include:
- Fever, sore throat, and rash
- Rapid weight loss
- Fatigue and poor appetite
- Swollen lymph glands
There is currently no cure or vaccine for HIV. Prevention through exposure control is the only effective strategy.
Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV)
HBV and HCV are both serious liver infections caused by viruses spread through blood exposure. They can be short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic), sometimes resulting in liver failure or cancer.
A person can carry HBV or HCV without showing symptoms, making exposure risk higher in workplace and healthcare environments.
Symptoms of HBV or HCV can include:
- Fatigue and fever
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Loss of appetite and abdominal pain
- Joint pain
- Dark urine or clay-colored stool
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
While there is a vaccine to prevent HBV, there is no vaccine for HCV. This makes protective measures all the more important.
For the latest statistics and more detailed information, visit the CDC website.