What are blood borne pathogens?

• A. Pathogenic microorganisms present in blood
• B. Pathogenic bacteria found in urine
• C. Substances that cause allergies
• D. Viruses only found in saliva

Answer: (A)

Blood borne pathogens are pathogenic microorganisms present in blood that can cause disease and be transmitted through exposure to infected blood. This includes viruses such as HIV and hepatitis B and C, as well as other infectious agents that circulate in the bloodstream. In healthcare and lab settings, this concept underpins safety practices because contact with infected blood—through needlesticks, splashes to mucous membranes, or exposure of open skin—can pass these pathogens to others. The other statements don’t fit because urine isn’t blood, substances that cause allergies aren’t pathogens nor necessarily in blood, and viruses are not limited to saliva and are not defined by being present only in saliva.