Platelets - Known Pathogens

A large number of pathogens are known to cause the transmission of diseases via blood components. These include bacteria (gram-positive and gram-negative), Rickettsia, viruses (enveloped and non-enveloped) and protozoa. Among the blood borne viruses, HIV and different hepatitis viruses have been shown to be the cause of the most severe diseases. Currently, arboviruses including dengue, chikungunya and West Nile virus are of the highest concern with regard to transfusion, with Zika also emerging as a virus of concern.