Which of the following is an example of a blood borne pathogen?

HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is classified as a bloodborne pathogen because it is primarily transmitted through blood, as well as bodily fluids such as semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk. Bloodborne pathogens are infectious microorganisms present in blood that can cause disease in humans. HIV specifically targets the immune system and can lead to AIDS if not treated, making it a significant concern in health and safety contexts, particularly in fields like esthetics where exposure to blood may occur.

Hepatitis C, another virus that is a bloodborne pathogen, is often confused because it shares transmission routes with HIV. However, in this particular question, the focus is on HIV as the correct example of a bloodborne pathogen. Other options listed, such as MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) and the flu virus, are not considered bloodborne pathogens. MRSA is a type of bacteria that can be transmitted through direct contact rather than through blood, and the flu virus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets, not by blood exposure.