Biological hazards are substances and organisms that can impose adverse health outcomes to humans.
Examples of Biological Hazards
Biological hazards include:
- Fungi
- Spores
- Bio-active substances
- Parasites
- Viruses
- Bacteria
- Protozoa
These organisms can be transmitted directly through entry into the body via inhalation , ingestion and absorption. Once inside the body, they can cause infections that can be transmitted from person to person.
Their transmission can also occur indirectly when infectious agents come into contact with objects and fluids i.e. food, water, food equipment etc. or through insect bites.
Health Impacts Of Biological Hazards
The diseases caused by biological hazards include:
- Fungal diseases -rashes, ringworm
- Viral diseases -measles rabies hepatitis
- Parasitic infections caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with the eggs or larvae of worms. Symptoms such as fever , fatigue, weight loss, neurological disorders may present.
- Bacterial infections i.e. tetanus, tuberculosis , food poisoning etc.
How to reduce biological hazard risk
To curb the potential risks of biological hazards:
Generally, the aim should be to reduce exposure to the hazard by eliminating or isolating the agents such as bacteria, fungi etc through sterilization, cleaning and disinfection.
Individuals should practice proper hygiene and sanitation measures such as the thorough washing of hands ,cleaning of food equipment, use of protective clothing e.g gloves,masks etc vaccination, the proper disposal of waste etc.
At the community level , similar measures should be employed alongside educating community members on how to identify biological hazards and to avoid them.