Parasites

Parasites are larger, many celled creatures that can live in, or on, humans.

Examples are tapeworms and Giardia (intestinal parasites); malaria, a blood-borne parasite; and lice and scabies, which are external skin parasites. (Lice are tiny insects, while scabies are mites, tiny spider-like creatures.) Most parasites can be seen with the naked eye, although some are microscopic.

When handling soiled linens, parasites such as lice and scabies could be a concern.