What is categorized as an occupational disease?

An occupational disease is defined as a health condition that arises as a direct result of the work environment or job-related activities. This typically involves exposure to harmful substances or potentially hazardous conditions that are prevalent in specific occupations.

In this context, an illness from prolonged exposure to harmful substances directly aligns with the definition of an occupational disease. Such diseases can develop after extended periods of exposure to toxic chemicals, dust, noise, or other environmental hazards in the workplace, leading to chronic health issues over time.

The other options do not fit the definition of an occupational disease as they pertain to different causes of illness that are not primarily linked to a specific work environment or job function. For example, a viral infection could occur in any setting and is not necessarily caused by occupational exposure. Similarly, genetic disorders arise from hereditary factors, and diseases caused by parasites are related to infections rather than occupational hazards.