Virus Transmission Copy
Ozlem (she/her) Community Manager July 29, 2021
Respiratory virus transmission:
How do respiratory viruses like COVID-19 spread? In this lesson, you will learn the basics of respiratory virus transmission, how long the viruses live, and facts on transmitting the COVID-19 virus. Although the United States has implemented public health measures to limit the virus’s spread, some person-to-person transmission will likely continue to occur. Your increased awareness will help you develop an effective plan to mitigate the risk in your workplace.Â
Quick fact: A single cough can produce up to 3,000 droplets.
Watch the video:
Bloodborne virus transmission:
Bloodborne diseases are caused by pathogenic microorganisms, which exist in blood and other bodily fluids. It is essential to know the ways exposure and transmission are most likely to occur in your particular situation, be it providing first aid to an employee, handling blood samples in the laboratory, or cleaning up blood from a workspace.Â
According to OSHA regulations, to reduce or eliminate the hazards of occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens, an employer must implement an exposure control plan for the worksite with details on employee protection measures. Your increased awareness of bloodborne virus transmission will guide you through creating effective plans.Â
This second video will explore how bloodborne pathogens are transmitted, with examples of common bloodborne viruses.Â
Watch the video:
Key takeaways:
- Bloodborne pathogens can be transmitted when blood or bodily fluids from an infected person enter another person’s body via eyes, nose, needlesticks, human bites, cuts, abrasions, or through mucous membranes. Any bodily fluid with blood is potentially infectious.Â
- The most common cause of transmission in the workplace is when an infected person’s blood enters another person’s bloodstream through an open wound.
- Always protect your eyes, nose, and mouth when treating a bloodborne pathogen.Â
- Visit OSHA’s bloodborne pathogen page for additional resources.Â
- Visit the CDC website to learn more about how COVID-19 spreads. Be sure to check this website often for the most up to date information.Â
