Blood-borne diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are transmitted from person to person through infected blood and body fluids, such as semen, vaginal secretions, and in some cases, saliva.

  • Hepatitis B virus can live in or on metal, cotton or glass for 1-2 weeks.
  • You do not have to see blood or body fluids on instruments for an infection to be transmitted.
  • Always clean and disinfect or sterilize instruments and equipment between client to reduce the possibility of transmitting blood-borne diseases.
  • Sometimes a person with a blood-borne disease may not show symptoms right away or at all, but they can still spread the disease to others.
  • Some people may not even know they are infected with a blood-borne disease, therefore assume all clients are potentially infected with a blood-borne disease and follow routine practices.
  • Always wear gloves during invasive procedures and wash your hands after removing the gloves once the procedure is completed.
  • Only use sterile and single-use needles and blades. Discard used needles and blades into a labelled sharps container.
  • There are no vaccines that protect against hepatitis C and HIV.
  • There is a vaccine available that protects against hepatitis B.  Immunization with the hepatitis B vaccine is strongly recommended for all PSW.

For a copy of this document in the following languages, please email us at BodySafe@toronto.ca

  • 中文 / Chinese
  • 한국어 / Korean
  • Tiếng Việt / Vietnamese