Pathogens

• What is meant by a pathogen?

  Microorganisms that cause infectious disease
• How do bacteria and viruses cause illness?

  By reproducing and releasing harmful toxins
• How are pathogens spread?

  Through air, water, and direct contact
• What types of pathogens are included in the definition of pathogens?

  Bacteria, viruses, protists, and fungi
• How do bacteria reproduce inside the human body?

  They divide every 20 minutes under ideal conditions
• What are toxins?

  Harmful chemicals released by bacteria
• How do viruses reproduce?

  Inside a host cell
• What happens to a host cell when a virus reproduces inside it?

  The cell can burst open and die
• How can pathogens be spread through the air?

  In water droplets
• What is an example of a disease spread through contaminated water?

  Cholera
• How can HIV be spread?

  By sharing infected needles
• What is one way to reduce the spread of pathogens?

  Practicing basic hygiene
• What can be added to drinking water to kill microorganisms?

  Chlorine
• How does using a condom help prevent the spread of HIV?

  It reduces direct contact between individuals
• What is one method of isolating patients with highly infectious diseases?

  Keeping them away from other people
• What is vaccination used for?

  To reduce the spread of pathogens
• What are the ways to reduce the spread of pathogens?

  • Practicing basic hygiene
  • Providing clean drinking water
  • Reducing direct contact between individuals
  • Isolating patients with infectious diseases
  • Vaccination