2. INTRODUCTION TO PATHOGENS

DEFINITION OF PATHOGEN:

A pathogen is an organism that causes disease to its host.

Various pathogens can exist in a salon environment, posing risks of infection if not properly managed. These pathogens include viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites, each with its mode of transmission:

VIRUS

Viruses can spread easily, especially in a salon setting where people are in close proximity. The most common viruses include :

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) : Causes warts, including plantar warts, and may be transmitted through surfaces or skin contact.

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) : Leads to cold sores, which can spread through close contact or contami- nated tools.

Hepatitis B & C : These viruses affect the liver and can be transmitted via blood-to-blood contact, making personal services a potential risk for transmission. They may be transmitted through contami- nated needles or tools.

COVID-19 : A respiratory virus that spreads through droplets and surfaces, making proper sanitization and mask use critical.

HIV : Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). AIDS is a disease that affects and breaks down the body’s immune system. Its transmission is very unlikely in a beauty salon, even in the case of a cut. In any case, if you accidentally cut a client with a tool (e.g. razor, scissors), you should not continue to use this tool without cleaning and disinfecting it.

BACTERIA

Bacteria are often found on surfaces and tools. Common bacterial infections in salons include :

Staphylococcus aureus (Staph) : A common bacteria that can cause skin infections, including boils and abscesses. It is particularly dangerous when the skin is broken during services like shaving or haircuts.

MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) : A more dangerous, antibiotic-resistant strain of Staph often spread by direct skin contact or through contaminated surfaces.

Streptococcus : Can lead to impetigo or other skin infections, and is often spread by direct contact or via shared tools.

FUNGI

Fungal infections are common in moist environments like salons. Common fungi such as trichophyton can cause :

Ringworm : A fungal infection of the skin, often transmitted through contaminated surfaces, towels, or shared tools.

Athlete’s foot (Tinea pedis) : This is a fungal infection affecting the feet, which can spread on shared surfaces such as salon floors or in damp towels, especially in pedicure areas.

PARASITE

Though less common, parasites such as lice (pediculosis) or scabies may be encountered in salons, particularly if clients have not disclosed such conditions. These parasites can be spread by sharing items like clothing, towels or combs.