What does BBI mean in VETERINARY

Blood-borne infections, or BBIs, are illnesses caused by pathogens such as viruses or bacteria that can be spread through contact with infected bodily fluids such as blood, semen and saliva.

A BBI is typically transmitted through direct contact with contaminated body fluids from an infected individual. This could include sharing of needles or syringes when injecting drugs, sexual contact with an infected person, occupational exposure to potentially infectious bodily fluids in the healthcare setting, mother to baby transmission during pregnancy or childbirth and sharing personal care items such as razors or toothbrushes.

Common signs and symptoms of a BBI include fever, chills, night sweats, headache, joint pain or swelling and fatigue. Additional symptoms vary depending on the infecting organism and may include nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

Yes - if a person does not receive appropriate care for their illness it can lead to long-term complications including permanent disability or even death in some cases. It is therefore important to seek medical attention promptly if you develop any concerning symptoms associated with a BBI.

In order to reduce your risk of getting a BBI you should practice good hygiene habits such as washing your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water; avoiding sharing needles; practicing safe sex (using barrier protection); avoiding contact wit h anyone who appears ill; and avoiding contact with non-sterile objects when possible (i.e., doorknobs). Vaccination is also available against some forms of BBIs such as hepatitis A &B virus.