what is biological hazard

Biological hazards are disease-producing agents, also known as pathogens, that can be transmitted to individuals through various routes of exposure. These hazards can result in acute or chronic health conditions and can include bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. Exposure to biological hazards can lead to sudden and long-term health issues, and sometimes life-threatening diseases. Examples of biological hazards include Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) . Biological hazards can be found in all work environments, but some sectors are at a higher risk, such as healthcare, veterinary services, agriculture, sewage management, and laboratories.