Which infection is considered a major concern for healthcare workers due to the risk of bloodborne transmission?

The concern regarding bloodborne transmission for healthcare workers is significantly heightened with Hepatitis B. This virus is highly infectious and can survive outside the body for extended periods, which increases the potential for accidental exposure in healthcare settings. Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with infectious bodily fluids, primarily blood, making it a major occupational hazard.

The vaccination for Hepatitis B is an essential tool in infection control for healthcare workers, as it can effectively prevent infection in those who may be exposed. This preventive measure highlights the importance of Hepatitis B as a serious risk, leading to severe liver disease and other complications, reinforcing why it is prioritized over other infections like HIV, which, while also a concern, is less contagious from blood exposure compared to Hepatitis B.

Influenza and Streptococcus are primarily spread via respiratory droplets and do not primarily pose a bloodborne transmission risk, making them less of a concern in terms of blood exposure for healthcare workers.