Cryptosporidiosis (crypto) is an infection caused by a group of parasites (germs), called cryptosporidium. Most infections occur in a person’s stomach and intestines (gastrointestinal tract). Infections can occur in other parts of the body, such as the lungs. These germs can infect humans, cattle, and other animals.
Diphtheria is an infection caused by a bacterium (germ) called Corynebacterium diphtheriae. These germs are not commonly found in Canada. Diphtheria is an infection prevented through immunization. Travellers and unimmunized persons are most at risk of getting sick.
Yersiniosis (yer-sin-ee-o-sis) is an infection caused by the bacteria Yersinia. Yersinia is a strong bacteria that can continue to live in environments without much oxygen and in refrigeration. One common source of infection can be contaminated food such as raw or undercooked pork.
Chickenpox is a common and preventable infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus.
Campylobacter enteritis is an infection caused by a group of bacteria. These germs live mostly in the intestines of animals, including poultry, cattle, rodents, and household pets.
Amebiasis is an infection caused by a parasite, called Entamoeba histolytica. It lives in the feces (poop) of a person. Most infections occur in a person’s stomach and intestines (gastrointestinal tract). In some people, the disease may occur in the liver, lungs, skin, and other parts of the body.
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of warm-blooded animals, including humans. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal. In Canada, bats, foxes, skunks, and raccoons are the most common transmitters of the disease.
Escherichia coli, also called E. coli, are bacteria that are often found in the intestines of people and animals. There are different types of E. coli. Some types of E. coli are not harmful, but others like E. coli O157:H7, can make some people very sick. Usually illness is caused by eating contaminated food or water, having contact with someone who is sick with the bacteria, or animals that carry it.