HIV and AIDS
Human immunodeficiency virus
Individuals who work in healthcare, emergency response, public safety, or in settings where they are exposed to human blood through needlestick and other sharps injuries, or who have close contact with mucous membranes or injuries that have broken the skin have an elevated risk of contracting bloodborne infectious diseases, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
About HIV / AIDS
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacks the immune system destroying an individual’s ability to fight infection. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is the final stage of an HIV infection. A sexually transmitted disease (STD), HIV/AIDS also presents a danger to healthcare and emergency workers through bloodborne transmission, such as needlesticks. HIV/AIDS cannot be prevented by immunization and the best way to protect workers at risk of accidental HIV/AIDS infection is prevention and education.
