There are all kinds of diseases and infections around us all the time. Some are air borne, others are water borne and some spread through contact. Microorganisms like bacteria, viruses and bloodborne pathogens can enter the body through so many routes. This is especially true for those who work with human blood and body fluids. If the handler is working with blood or other body fluids infected with bloodborne pathogens, he or she may contract dangerous diseases like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV. They can enter the blood stream of the healthy body through open cuts, bruises or unprotected intercourse.

For the prevention of infections related to bloodborne pathogens, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which works under the Department of Health and Human Services has made the Bloodborne pathogen training mandatory for all professionals and workers in the health care establishments. This trains the people in preventing the spread of bloodborne pathogens, controlling infections caused by them and teaches them to deal with accidental exposure. Listed below are 5 things you may not know about bloodborne pathogens but must know.

– All those handling human blood and human body fluids are at risk: People working in health care establishments, like the doctors, nurses, paramedics, laboratory workers and other support staff in the hospitals and clinics are at maximum risk for their job involves working with human bodies. However, it is not just them. All those who work with blood and body fluids are at a risk. This may include students in laboratories who may have freak accidents, a Good Samaritan helping a victim in an accident or even a chef in a kitchen with a minor cut on his finger. The bottom-line is that we are all at a risk being infected by the bloodborne pathogens. It is, therefore, good for everybody to have a good working knowledge about the prevention of infection.

– Infected blood and body fluids are very dangerous: Bloodborne pathogens can cause diseases like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV and other deadly illnesses. Unfortunately, these diseases are still not curable, with vaccination being available only for Hepatitis B.

– Healthy bodies may also be affected: Bloodborne pathogens only require an open wound or a cut or some gateway to enter a body. Even the healthiest of bodies can be infected with deadly microbes.

– Pathogens can enter through many routes: The pathogens can enter through many channels, cuts, open wounds, abrasions on the skin or even a rash may be the mode of transfer. Accidental cuts with glass pieces or instruments infected with blood or unwashed bed sheets with seminal or vaginal residues can also be the causes. Women are at a risk for the public restrooms may have infected menstrual blood on the fittings and faucets.

– It is important to have basic knowledge: Minimum knowledge about the infections and spread of microorganisms not only helps prevent the spread but also promotes a hygienic lifestyle.

It is not just the health care staffs who are at risk. Anyone can be affected by these dangerous microorganisms. The only way to prevent them from spreading is to be armed with knowledge and take the right precautions.

For more information, please visit our bloodborne pathogens website.

For more information, please visit our bloodborne pathogens website http://www.bloodborne-pathogens.com

Author Bio: For more information, please visit our bloodborne pathogens website.

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Keywords: bloodborne pathogens certification,Bloodborne Pathogen ,health care