Household Biological Hazards

Unsanitary households can host a variety of biological hazards that can cause acute or chronic illnesses. Families may not be aware of household conditions that help germs and bacteria thrive. Kitchens, bathrooms and surfaces such as doorknobs provide environments where biological hazards can easily be transmitted among family members. Regular housekeeping, cleaning and hand washing are all essential to maintaining a safe and hygienic home.

Contaminated Drinking Water

• Pathogens within contaminated drinking water can cause conditions such as dysentery, gastroenteritis and salmonella poisoning. The North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service reports that contaminated water can also cause chronic kidney or immune system disorders. Pathogens can seep into a water supply when sewage contaminates a water system or when builders improperly seal a private well. While public water is purified and tested, it can still be contaminated. Private wells aren't subject to mandatory testing, so the American College of Education and Occupational Medicine recommends that homeowners with private wells test their water annually.

Germs

• A 2010 study conducted by the Hygiene Council revealed that bathtubs and kitchen towels were the two most germ-infested items in American homes, and that most Americans are unaware of how easily germs can be transmitted from the computer keyboard and computer mouse if they aren't regularly cleaned and disinfected. CBS News reports that American homes are more likely to have higher bacteria concentrations in sinks, drains and toilet bowls than in their wastebaskets. The Centers for Disease Control recommends that family members regularly wash their hands with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to kill the germs they're exposed to.

Mold

• Mold reproduces through miniscule airborne spores that can generate new mold colonies in any damp household environment. Mold and its spores can trigger allergic reactions, cause asthma attacks and release poisonous fungus byproducts called mycotoxins. People with mold allergies may experience congestion, sneezing, rashes and burning, watery eyes. National Jewish Health reports that 21 percent of asthma incidents can be attributed to reactions to mold.

Spoiled Food

• Improper food storage can lead to food poisoning and parasitic infections. The Michigan Department of Agriculture recommends that people maintain a 40-degree refrigerator temperature and set their freezers to zero degrees. Store all meat, fish and poultry in your freezer until you're ready to cook it and ensure that it's wrapped tightly enough to prevent its juice from dripping onto other food. If you're ever unsure of whether food is safe to prepare and consume, throw it out. Always wash your hands with hot water and soap before handling food and keep all kitchen surfaces and utensils clean. Reserve a cutting board to use exclusively with meat to prevent transmission of bacteria and parasites.