Pathogens

Microorganisms that can cause disease in other organisms or humans, animals, and plants. They may be bacteria, viruses, fungus, or parasites and are found in sewage, in runoff from animal farms or rural areas populated with domestic and/or wild animals, and in water used for swimming. Pathogens can be present in municipal, industrial, and nonpoint source discharges to the Sound. Fish and shellfish contaminated by pathogens, or the contaminated water itself, can cause serious illnesses.