Communicable Disease 1 - Introduction

• What are microorganisms?

  Tiny organisms including bacteria, viruses, protists, fungi
• What are pathogens?

  Microorganisms that can cause disease
• How do pathogens spread?

  From person to person
• What are communicable diseases?

  Diseases caused by pathogens that spread
• What types of organisms can pathogens affect?

  Both animals and plants
• What are the four types of pathogens?

  • Bacteria
  • Viruses
  • Protists
  • Fungi
• What is one way pathogens spread through the air?

  Via tiny droplets expelled when coughing or sneezing
• What is cholera?

  A bacterial disease spread by contaminated water
• How is Salmonella bacteria spread?

  By eating contaminated food, especially chicken
• How does athlete's foot spread?

  By direct contact on contaminated surfaces
• What is a common hygiene practice to prevent disease spread?

  Washing hands after using the bathroom
• What are vectors in the context of pathogens?

  Organisms that transport the pathogen
• How can insect vectors be killed?

  By spreading insecticides
• What is the best way to prevent pathogen spread?

  Vaccinating everyone
• What is quarantine?

  Isolating individuals with serious diseases
• What are the three ways pathogens can spread?

  1. Through the air
  2. Through contaminated food or water
  3. Through direct contact
• What measures can reduce the spread of pathogens?

  1. Maintain hygiene
  2. Kill vectors
  3. Vaccinate people
  4. Quarantine individuals
• Where can you find more resources on pathogens?

  On the Cognito website