Touching feces, whether human or animal, can cause illness. Feces harbor diverse microorganisms, many of which are harmful if they enter the human body. Even microscopic particles can pose a risk.
The Microbes in Feces
Feces are primarily composed of bacteria, making up over half of their solid content. Beyond beneficial bacteria, feces can also contain various disease-causing microorganisms, known as pathogens. These include bacteria like Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella, Shigella, and Campylobacter.
Viruses are another significant group of pathogens found in feces. Common examples include Norovirus, Rotavirus, and Hepatitis A virus, which can all lead to illness. Parasites, such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, are also frequently present in fecal matter.
How Contamination Occurs
The primary way these microbes transfer from feces to a person is through the fecal-oral route. This means that microscopic fecal particles from an infected person or animal are somehow ingested by another person. This transfer often happens indirectly through contaminated hands or surfaces.
Scenarios where contamination can occur include not washing hands thoroughly after using the restroom or changing diapers. If hands are contaminated, touching surfaces like doorknobs, toys, or changing tables can spread these invisible particles. Handling pets or their waste without proper hand hygiene can also lead to contamination.
Potential Health Issues
Coming into contact with fecal matter and subsequently ingesting pathogens can lead to a range of health problems. Gastroenteritis is a common outcome, characterized by symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps.
Specific infections pose distinct health risks. Salmonellosis, caused by Salmonella bacteria, typically results in diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, with symptoms usually appearing within 8 to 72 hours after exposure and lasting a few days to a week. Hepatitis A, caused by the Hepatitis A virus, leads to liver inflammation and can manifest as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). Symptoms for Hepatitis A usually appear 14 to 28 days after exposure and can range from mild to severe.
Giardiasis, an infection caused by the Giardia parasite, commonly causes watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, and loose, greasy stools. Severe cases of these illnesses can lead to dehydration and may require medical attention.
Protecting Yourself and Others
Implementing consistent hygiene practices is an effective way to minimize the risk of illness from fecal contamination. Thorough handwashing with soap and water is essential. Hands should be washed for at least 20 seconds, ensuring all surfaces are scrubbed, especially after using the toilet, changing diapers, or handling animals.
Proper disposal of waste is also important. Diapers should be disposed of in a sealed bag in the trash. Pet waste should be collected using a bag and placed in the garbage. Never use pet waste as fertilizer for edible plants, as it can contain harmful pathogens.
Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that may have come into contact with feces is another protective measure. This is particularly important in kitchens and bathrooms. In food preparation, avoiding cross-contamination involves using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw and ready-to-eat foods, and washing hands thoroughly between handling different items. Storing raw meats on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator also prevents juices from dripping onto other foods.