Infection is defined in IHR (2005) as the entry and development or multiplication of an infectious agent in the body of humans and animals that may constitute a public health risk. Contamination is defined as the presence of an infectious or toxic agent or matter on a human or animal body surface, in or on a product prepared for consumption or on other inanimate objects, including conveyances (e. g. a ship), that may constitute a public health risk.
A ship should only be issued with a Ship Sanitation Control Exemption Certificate if it has been found free of infection and contamination. What is the difference between infection and contamination?
