Pathogens

• What is meant by a pathogen?

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

  Bacteria reproduce rapidly and release toxins
• What are the types of pathogens mentioned?

  Bacteria, viruses, protists, and fungi
• How often can bacteria divide under ideal conditions?

  Every 20 minutes
• What do toxins released by bacteria do?

  They damage tissues and make us feel ill
• What is the virus HIV known to lead to?

  AIDS
• 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 are pathogens commonly 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 does chlorine in drinking water do?

  Kills microorganisms
• How can direct contact between individuals be reduced?

  Using a condom during sexual intercourse
• Why might patients with highly infectious diseases be isolated?

  To prevent the pathogen from spreading
• What is one method of reducing the spread of pathogens mentioned?

  Vaccination
• 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
• What should you be able to describe after this video?

  • Definition of a pathogen
  • How bacteria and viruses cause illness
  • Ways to reduce or prevent the spread of pathogens