Lead is a toxic metal that is found naturally in the air, soil, and water. It is also used in mining, manufacturing, and burning of fossil fuels. The amount of lead Canadians are exposed to has decreased since the 1970s, mainly due to the removal of lead in gasoline, paint, and solder in food cans (Government of Canada, 2013).
Cholera is an intestinal infection caused by bacteria. The bacteria can be found in water or food that has been contaminated with stool (poop) from a person who is infected with cholera. In Ontario, an average of one case per year is reported and all cases have been exposed to cholera in another country while travelling. Places in the world with poor sanitation, poor water treatment and inadequate hygiene are more likely to have cholera.