Prions, like viruses, reproduce when inside a host. Parasites, bacteria, fungi, viruses and prions are all types of pathogens. Sterilization protocols need to

Prions, like viruses, reproduce when inside a host. Parasites, bacteria, fungi, viruses and prions are all types of pathogens. Sterilization protocols need to be followed to ensure that one patients prions don't infect another surgery patient. It turns out that relatively recent concerns over transmissible spongiform encephalopathy, caused by prions, has required changes to the sterilization procedures used in hospitals.