What are bloodborne pathogens?

Bloodborne pathogens refer specifically to infectious microorganisms that are present in human blood and can lead to diseases in humans. These pathogens include various types of viruses, bacteria, and parasites that can be transmitted through blood and other potentially infectious materials. Understanding bloodborne pathogens is crucial in health and safety training, particularly for those working in environments where they might encounter blood or fluids containing blood.

By recognizing this definition, it becomes clear that the other choices do not accurately describe bloodborne pathogens. For instance, microorganisms found in contaminated water pertain to waterborne pathogens, airborne particles relate to respiratory issues, and pathogens found only in animal blood are not considered bloodborne in the context of human health. The focus on human blood makes the first choice the most precise in understanding the risks associated with bloodborne pathogens.