Diseases that can Happen Because of Improper Medical Waste Disposal
3/6/2020
Did you know that medical wastes, if not handled and thrown correctly, can causes diseases? This is why proper disposal of medical wastes is a must. Pathogens, which are organisms that are abundant in these wastes, are the main culprits why these diseases emerge.
Here are some of the most well-known illnesses that we can get from improper disposal of medical wastes:
• Parasitic Infections – Medical wastes in the form of bodily fluids that are taken from patients with parasitic infections can spread these parasites when thrown carelessly.
• Lung Infections – Airborne aerosols that can carry viruses that cause influenza, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and other respiratory illnesses can potentially infect a person and spread it when wastes are not managed well.
• Skin Infections – From common skin infections like scabies to rarer ones like anthrax, one can get these when medical wastes with these pathogens are thrown irresponsibly.
• HIV and Hepatitis – Needles or other sharp tools or items from hospitals that are infected with HIV or Hepatitis can spread to people, especially when open wounds are exposed to these.
• Candida – Candida, a type of yeast, can be found in hospitals. Wastes that are exposed to this, especially during long periods, can be a severe threat to those who are susceptible like pregnant women, people with weak immune systems, and small children.
• Meningitis – Meningitis can be possibly transferred to medical wastes too. Wastes that are exposed to bodily fluids can cause inflammation in the membranes that surround the spinal cord and brain.
• Bacteremia – This life-threatening condition, which inflames the organs due to the bloodstream being infected, can be taken from sharp objects and other medical wastes that are not thrown away appropriately.
These are just some of the most common diseases we can get when medical wastes are not dealt with properly. Hence, the proper disposal of these wastes must be followed.