ABSTRACT
Biological risk is defined as a risk caused by a microbiological infectious agent, essentially bacteria or viruses and, to a lesser degree, by fungi or parasites. Factors of globalization can accelerate the appearance and spread of epidemic infections. Anything linked to the environment affects epidemic phenomena. The emergence in May 2011 of the enterohemorrhagicescherichia coli (EHEC) bacteria in the Hamburg region is a good example of the problems that can arise from emerging epidemics and their consequences. This severe epidemic illustrates the importance of a rapid enquiry to determine source and implement the necessary means to stop the epidemic phenomenon. Infectious risk exists through the evolution of infectious diseases. Some are permanently or virtually permanently established. These are referred to as endemic phenomena, justifying regular processes intended to combat the risk worldwide. It should be stressed that nosocomial agents are associated with microbial agents either from external sources or from the flora of a patient, which makes prevention more difficult.
