Infectious Agents- Biological Hazards Page

Infectious Agents

Key Concerns

Infectious agents like bacteria, viruses, and fungi can be found on commonly touched surfaces, in the air, and in damp areas of the home. These organisms can cause illness or infections, particularly in older adults with weakened immune systems.

Bacteria (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli, Staphylococcus) can spread through contaminated food, unclean kitchens, or pet waste, leading to food poisoning, skin infections, or urinary tract infections.
Viruses (e.g., influenza, norovirus, COVID-19) can survive on surfaces like doorknobs, phones, and countertops and spread easily through touch, coughs, or sneezes, causing respiratory or stomach illnesses.
Fungi, including molds and yeasts, thrive in moist, poorly ventilated areas and can cause skin infections, allergies, or lung issues in sensitive individuals.

Sources

Human and Animal Carriers

People and pets can bring infectious agents into the home. This includes coughs, sneezes, unwashed hands, or dirty shoes in humans, and pet saliva, fur, waste, or paws in animals. These can carry viruses, bacteria, or parasites that contaminate surfaces and indoor air.

Contaminated Surfaces

Frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, kitchen counters, remote controls, toilets, and faucets can harbor bacteria and viruses. Shared items such as sponges, cutting boards, towels, or bedding can also spread pathogens if not cleaned regularly.

Spoiled or Contaminated Food

Rotten food, improperly stored leftovers, or raw meat and dairy can harbor harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli. These pathogens can lead to foodborne illnesses, especially in older adults whose immune systems may be less resilient. Cross-contamination during food prep (e.g., using the same cutting board for raw meat and vegetables) also increases risk.

How to Limit & Avoid Risks Associated with Infectious Agents

Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the restroom, handling pets, or preparing food.
Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces daily, such as doorknobs, light switches, countertops, and remote controls.
Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and vegetables to avoid cross-contamination.
Store food properly in airtight containers and refrigerate leftovers promptly to prevent spoilage and bacterial growth.
Check expiration dates and regularly clean out the refrigerator and pantry to remove expired or spoiled food.
Keep bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas dry and well-ventilated to prevent mold and fungal growth.
Use exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen, or open windows to reduce moisture and improve air circulation.
Avoid carpet in damp areas like basements and bathrooms to prevent mold and bacteria buildup.
Clean and disinfect pet feeding areas and bedding regularly to limit bacteria, mites, and parasites.
Ensure proper ventilation throughout the home, especially in areas where people gather or sleep.
Take off shoes at the door to reduce tracking germs into the living space.
Stay home when sick, cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow, and dispose of tissues immediately.
Use a humidifier properly, keeping it clean and emptying standing water to prevent mold and bacterial growth inside the device.
Educate everyone in the household about hygiene practices and cleaning routines to maintain a healthy home environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1 What are infectious agents, and where are they found in the home?
Infectious agents include bacteria, viruses, and fungi. They can be found on kitchen surfaces, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, in damp areas, and on items like sponges, towels, and electronics.

Q.2 How do infectious agents spread indoors?
They spread through touching contaminated surfaces, airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing, improper food handling, or through pets and shoes bringing in germs from outside.

Q.3 What health problems can infectious agents cause?
They can lead to respiratory infections, stomach illnesses, skin rashes, or worsen existing conditions like asthma or allergies, especially in older adults or those with weakened immune systems.

Q.4 How often should I disinfect surfaces to prevent the spread of germs?
High-touch surfaces like doorknobs, countertops, light switches, and phones should be disinfected daily, especially during cold, flu, or allergy seasons.

Q.5 Can pets increase the risk of infections in the home?
Yes, pets can carry bacteria, parasites, or viruses on their fur, paws, or saliva. Regular grooming, cleaning pet areas, and washing hands after contact helps reduce risk.

Q.6 How can I keep food safe from infectious agents?
Keep raw meats separate, use clean cutting boards, store food at the correct temperature, and discard leftovers that are more than a few days old. Always wash hands before and after handling food.

Q.7 Are mold and mildew also considered infectious agents?
Yes. Some fungi, including molds, can affect respiratory health. They grow in damp, poorly ventilated areas and can produce spores that are harmful when inhaled over time.