In Summary

Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms present in blood or other body fluids that can cause diseases including AIDS, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.

To protect yourself from exposure to these disease agents:

• obtain the free Hepatitis B vaccination series from Employee Health,
• follow Standard Precautions,
• treat all human blood, tissue, and body fluids as infected.

If you experience a needlestick, other sharps injury, or any other exposure to blood or OPIM:

• immediately discontinue what you are doing,
• wash contaminated skin with soap and water,
• flush contaminated eyes with running water for 15 minutes,
• report exposure to your supervisor,
• go to McCosh Health Center for evaluation and any necessary treatment as soon as possible.