Minimising risk

Blood borne viruses (BBVs) are viruses that some people carry in their blood.

They may cause severe disease in some people, and few or no symptoms in others.

The virus can spread to another person, regardless of whether the carrier is ill or not.

Examples of BBVs are:

Hepatitis – Disease of the liver,

HIV – Human Immunodeficiency Virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).

Blood borne viruses can be found in bodily fluids:

Saliva

Sweat

Tears

Urine

Faeces

Vomit.

These are minimal risk unless contaminated with blood. Precautions to prevent spread should be taken regardless.

Infection can also be caused by:

Sharps injury:

Laceration

Puncture wound.

Splashes:

Eyes

Mouth

Broken skin.

Manual cleaning instruments carries an increased risk of a sharps injury and splashes.