What term is used for disease-causing microorganisms transmitted in the body by blood?

Bloodborne pathogens refer specifically to microorganisms that are present in human blood and can lead to disease. These pathogens are particularly significant in settings such as healthcare and esthetics, where the risk of exposure to blood is higher. Examples of bloodborne pathogens include viruses like HIV and Hepatitis B and C, which can be transmitted through contact with infected blood. Understanding this term is critical for professionals in the field, as it underscores the importance of safety precautions and sanitary practices to prevent the transmission of these dangerous microorganisms during procedures.

In contrast, contagious pathogens generally describe infectious agents that can spread from person to person through direct contact or respiratory droplets, rather than specifically through blood. Infectious agents is a broader term that encompasses all types of microorganisms that can cause disease, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, without focusing on the mode of transmission. Airborne pathogens specifically refer to those that are transmitted through the air, typically via droplets or dust, and do not involve blood. This distinction reinforces why "bloodborne pathogens" is the most accurate term when referring to disease-causing microorganisms transmitted through blood.