Thousands of types of bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi exist, both known and unknown; and are around us and within us. Most are not harmful—some help bodily functions stay in balance, and strengthen our immune system.  Chlamydia bacteria and parasites are immortal animal pathogens, which start as an acute infection, spread and evolve into a chronic infection and can become a chronic disease.

Animal bacteria and parasites can be transmitted from animal-to-person, by close contact. Infected humans may transmit animal pathogens person-to-person, through secretions, airborne particles, and microscopic fecal particles. Humans can acquire animal pathogens and parasites, by ingesting surface water (ponds, lakes, rivers, and streams), containing microscopic fecal particles. Animals can acquire pathogens from surface water, and subsequently transmit the pathogens to humans and other animals. The highest amount of fecal contamination in surface water is from birds, followed by dogs, people, rodents, cows, and other domesticated and wild animals.

Westphal D. 2017. Does a Bear…in the River? No, But Plenty of Others Do. Doi: ejournal.abqjournal.com/popovers/dynamic_article­_popover.aspx?artguid=2d87718e-ec))-4b92-855d-5744b64728f9.