Food- and water-borne illnesses may be caused by toxins created by growing bacteria; toxins produced by the harmful algal species; or contamination of food and/or water with certain bacteria, viruses or parasites. Many cases of food poisoning happen when someone eats food that has harmful bacteria in it.

Even these experts wouldn’t eat some of the stuff—from berries to bats (yes, bats)—on this list.

• Raw meat and seafood.
• Bushmeat.
• Berries.
• Apples.
• Frozen foods.
• Sauces and condiments.
• Shellfish.
• Raw vegetables.

It can lead to food poisoning). The result: dangerous diseases like cholera and typhoid fever. Other waterborne diseases include diarrhoea, dysentery, polio and meningitis. Unclean water for washing can cause skin and infectious eye disease such as Trachoma.

The top five germs that cause illnesses from food eaten in the United States are:

• Norovirus.
• Salmonella.
• Clostridium perfringens.
• Campylobacter.
• Staphylococcus aureus (Staph)

Infectious diseases can be transmitted via contaminated food and water. E. coli is often transmitted through improperly handled produce or undercooked meat. Improperly canned foods can create an environment ripe for Clostridium botulinum, which can lead to botulism.

Learn these healthy habits to protect yourself from disease and prevent germs and infectious diseases from spreading.

1. Handle & Prepare Food Safely.
2. Wash Hands Often.
3. Clean & Disinfect Commonly Used Surfaces.
4. Cough & Sneeze Into Your Sleeve.
5. Don’t Share Personal Items.
6. Get Vaccinated.
7. Avoid Touching Wild Animals.

Infectious diseases are disorders caused by organisms — such as bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites. Many organisms live in and on our bodies. They’re normally harmless or even helpful. But under certain conditions, some organisms may cause disease.