Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacks and destroys the immune system. It may take years for the immune system to be affected, but eventually HIV will lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

AIDS prevents the immune system from fighting infections that it would normally be able to withstand. These infections eventually become lethal. There are medications available to reduce the spread of HIV infection, but there is no known cure at this time.

Hepatitis affects the liver and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer, or other lethal outcomes. There is a vaccine for Hepatitis B that should be made available to all employees normally undergoing occupational exposure. The vaccine should be offered within 10 days of being exposed, but only after the employee has finished bloodborne pathogen training.