A risk factor is something that raises your chances of having a health problem. You can get an infection even if you do not have risks. The risks are not the same for each infection. The basic ones are:

Poor Hygiene

Viruses and bacteria that cause infections are passed through contact with infected people. You are at higher risk if you:

• Do not wash your hands.
• Touch your nose, mouth, and eyes with contaminated fingers.

Sex

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are passed from person to person during sex. Your risk is higher if you have had:

• Many sex partners
• Sex with someone who has had many partners
• Sex without using condoms

Contaminated Foods

Germs that cause infections have been found in:

• Uncooked meats
• Undercooked meat , such as rare beef, from infected animals
• Uncooked vegetables
• Unpasteurized milk
• Foods made from unpasteurized milk
• Processed foods

Your risk is higher if you eat these foods.

Lifestyle Factors

Lifestyle factors are:

• Having close contact with someone who has an infection
• Using household items that were used by an infected person and not cleaned
• Handling cat litter or soil where there is cat feces
• Having a job that involves contact with bodily fluids, such as a:
  • Childcare worker
  • First aid or emergency worker
  • Funeral director
  • Healthcare worker
  • Dentist
  • Dental assistant
  • Firefighter
  • Police staff