Colorado Springs, CO – Diseases Caused by the Incorrect Disposal of Infectious Waste
Posted in: Industry News
Did you know that improper disposal of infectious waste could cause various diseases? Read on to study the risks in detail.
Infectious waste or biological waste is mostly medical waste. Improper disposal of biological waste or infectious waste can cause many life-threatening diseases. Based on a research conducted by Daniels Health, up to 25% of discarded medical waste is hazardous and may cause illnesses, diseases or injuries in humans and harm the environment.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), incorrect disposal of infectious waste can result in the following diseases:
HIV and Hepatitis B or C
It’s quite possible that infectious waste includes blood containing viruses that can potentially cause AIDS or Hepatitis B or C. Deadly infections can result from a mere puncture from a scalpel blade or a needle stick. This is the reason why sharp objects must be disposed of in firmly sealed, clearly marked containers.
Lung Infections
Infectious waste commonly releases airborne aerosols, containing lung damaging viruses such as influenza, pneumonia, and tuberculosis, or pathogens like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Skin Infections
If you come into contact with one or more pathogens found in infectious waste, you can easily contract a skin infection. Anthrax, for instance, is a dangerous skin infection. Even though this condition is rare, it can spread if anthrax-contaminated waste is not disposed of properly.
That’s why you should never try to handle biohazard waste on your own. Professional biohazard waste cleaners use protective gear, such as hand gloves, to dispose of waste, especially if it’s not discarded in safe containers or the container has leaks, breaks or cracks.
Parasitic Infections
Labs testing parasitic infections on a daily basis will certainly carry specimens that are positive for parasites. Body fluids are incubated and tested for the parasites before being disposed of as infectious waste.
Alarmingly, some parasites can stay active and thrive in waste, and if they come into contact with someone, parasitic infections would be inevitable.
Meningitis
Meningitis can cause inflammation of the membranes around the spinal cord and brain. Even accidental exposure to biomedical waste containing bodily fluids can result in the contraction of this dangerous disease.
Bacteremia
Healthcare instruments such as sharps can host bacteremia causing pathogens. This is a deadly bacteria. If it enters your bloodstream, it will affect all your body organs and cause inflammation.
In summary, if infectious waste is gathered at a healthcare facility and is not disposed of properly, it can lead to many illnesses. Therefore, proper waste management and hygiene are essential. Don’t even think of disposing of such waste yourself. Always call a professional for help.
If you need to dispose of infectious waste, reach out to S.T.O.P for professional waste cleanup.
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