What are biological contaminants?

Biological contaminants refer specifically to microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that can pose health risks to humans and animals. These microorganisms can cause a range of illnesses, from mild infections to severe diseases, depending on the type of organism and the individual's health status.

For example, pathogens like E. coli or Salmonella are commonly known biological contaminants found in contaminated food or water that can lead to foodborne illness. Understanding that biological contaminants are primarily living organisms that can lead to disease helps in effective monitoring and controlling the quality of water, air, and food supplies at both individual and community levels.

The other options deal with pollution from non-biological sources or specific waste materials that do not have the same direct connection to health impacts through infectious agents as biological contaminants do. This distinction emphasizes the importance of recognizing biological contaminants in environmental health and sanitation practices.