Bloodborne Diseases MSDSs Bloodborne Pathogens Program Appendix 4 5. There are two bloodborne diseases that merit serious concern for everyone with occupational exposure to human blood or other potentially infectious materials. By following the universal precautions described in this document you can minimize or prevent the transmission of all bloodborne diseases.
Viruses are the most common cause of hepatitis.
Of the four hepatitis viruses prevalent in the United States, hepatitis B virus is the major infectious hazard to healthcare workers. It is also the most frequently occurring laboratory infection. Blood and blood-derived body fluids contain the highest quantities of virus and are the most likely routes for HBV transmission. The virus is usually found in small quantities in some other fluids such as urine. Many persons never have symptoms when they become infected with hepatitis B virus, although they may transmit the disease to others.