One key goal of sanitation is to safely reduce human exposure to pathogens. pathogens are excreted by infected individuals and if not properly contained or treated, may present a risk to humans who come in contact with them.
Clean drinking water and good sanitation would not prevent infections without practicing good hygiene. A simple habit of washing hands goes a long way towards preventing diseases. The stored water supply may also serve as a source of infection in the absence of hygiene.
