What does the term 'germ' refer to in health and safety?

The term 'germ' commonly refers to microorganisms that have the potential to cause disease. This includes bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa that can invade the body and lead to various health issues. Understanding this definition is crucial in the context of health and safety, particularly in food handling and personal hygiene practices. Recognizing that not all microorganisms are harmful is important; however, in this context, 'germ' specifically denotes those types that can lead to illness, thereby highlighting the need for proper sanitation and preventive measures in environments where food is handled, stored, or served.