I already know there will probably be many comments saying it's rare (at least I'd hope it's rare lol), but being someone with a compromised immune system I get a bit sketched out when it comes to health related things.
So the question(s) is(are), how common are Fish To Human Diseases REALLY (honestly), such as Fish TB for one example, and what can I do to make it even more rare if not even next to impossible to happen?
-Are there certain things I can put in my filter?
-Are there certain things to avoid and/or do (I assume the obvious is try to keep it as clean as possible with regular water changes, also to wear gloves)?
-I've heard of UV Sterilizers, is that something that you can run frequently and would that help eliminate disease causing bacteria?
-Are all fish diseases that can transfer to human only via open wounds or also other ways (example: if airborne is possible should a mask help as a preventative)?
-Etc. etc.
I know this may seem crazy or over the top to some, especially those who have been in the hobby for the longest time, but my way of thinking is the old saying "better safe than sorry" and if I can be extra precautious and safe to reduce the (hopefully already rare) risk, then I say that's better than not!
Thanks for bearing with me on this topic!
The first thing I always tell people is to check with their physician. I'm not a doctor, and most of here are not as well.
Always wear gloves, never siphon by mouth, never expose broken skin to the water and wash with soap and water after working on your tank.
I've gotten mycobacteria from aquariums. I was asymptomitc, it showed up on a routine TB test. It went away on its own.
There isn't anything you can do to your aquarium to resolve this, but UV sterilizers do reduce bacterial loading to some degree (but not 100%).
Jay