Transmission of Blood borne Pathogens

Blood borne pathogens can be transmitted when infectious blood or OPIM is introduced into the bloodstream of a person. Transmission of blood borne pathogens in the workplace can occur through the following routes of transmission:

• Parenteral exposure - this means that the infected blood or OPIM is introduced directly into your body through a break in the skin. Examples include: a needle-stick injury or a cut with a piece of contaminated glass.
• Mucous membrane exposure - this means that the infected blood or OPIM enters your body through contact with a mucous membrane found in your eye, nose or mouth.

Blood borne pathogens may also be transmitted through:

• Sexual contact
• Infected women may expose their newborn children to BBP's through amniotic fluid, through blood during the birthing process, and (less likely) through breast milk.