Which types of pathogens are classified as bloodborne?

Bloodborne pathogens are infectious microorganisms found in blood that can cause disease in humans. The classification of pathogens as bloodborne is based on their transmission through blood and other potentially infectious materials.

The correct answer highlights Hepatitis B virus, Hepatitis C virus, and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) as key examples of bloodborne pathogens. These viruses are primarily transmitted through exposure to infected blood, sexual contact, and from mother to child during childbirth. Hepatitis B and C can lead to chronic liver disease, while HIV can progress to AIDS, making their recognition as bloodborne pathogens crucial for public health and safety.

Other options contain pathogens that do not primarily transmit through blood. For instance, Hepatitis A virus is spread through fecal-oral transmission and is not considered a bloodborne pathogen. Likewise, the Influenza virus and E. coli are generally transmitted via respiratory droplets and contaminated food, respectively, rather than through blood. Similarly, tuberculosis, syphilis, and West Nile virus found in the other option, primarily spread through airborne and other non-blood routes. Lastly, Staphylococcus aureus, Norovirus, and Rabies virus are not classified as bloodborne because they typically do not spread through blood contact in most scenarios.