Bloodborne pathogens are defined as disease-causing microorganisms carried in the body by blood or body fluids, such as hepatitis and HIV. Which term best describes this group?

• A. Bloodborne Pathogens
• B. Airborne Pathogens
• C. Soilborne Pathogens
• D. Waterborne Pathogens

Answer: (A)

Pathogens are categorized by how they are transmitted. When disease-causing microorganisms are carried in blood or body fluids, they are described as bloodborne pathogens. Hepatitis B and HIV are classic examples because they can be transmitted through exposure to contaminated blood and certain body fluids. This focus on transmission through blood sets them apart from other types: airborne pathogens spread through the air, soilborne pathogens originate in soil, and waterborne pathogens are carried in water. So the term that best describes this group is bloodborne pathogens.