What type of disease transmission does the policy aim to address?

The policy focuses on transmissible diseases through blood and bodily fluids because these types of diseases pose significant risks to first responders and healthcare personnel. In the context of fire department procedures, there is a heightened concern for exposure to pathogens that can be contracted through contact with contaminated bodily fluids, such as blood, saliva, or other fluids. This includes diseases such as HIV, hepatitis B and C, and other viral infections that can be transmitted during emergency responses. Understanding how these diseases can be transmitted and implementing procedures to minimize exposure is crucial for the safety and health of firefighters and emergency medical personnel, ensuring they are well-protected while performing their duties.

Airborne diseases, vector-borne diseases, and chronic diseases do not encompass the same immediate risks as those transmitted through blood and bodily fluids in the context of emergency services, making the latter the primary focus of the policy.