Blood patogen

Overview

Bloodborne pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, are present in blood and body
fluids and can cause disease in humans. Pathogens are found almost everywhere
in our environment. Bacteria can live outside of the body and commonly do not
depend on other organisms for life. If a person is infected by bacteria, antibiotics
and other medications often are used to treat the infection. Viruses depend on other
organisms to live. Once viruses are in the body, they are difficult to kill. This is why
prevention is critical. The bloodborne pathogens of primary concern to lifeguards are
the hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus and HIV