Pathogens: Disease‑Causing Microorganisms Explained
Microorganisms include bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and archaea. Most are harmless or beneficial, but pathogens are those that cause disease.
Major Pathogen Groups
- Bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumonia), Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB), Salmonella (food poisoning).
- Viruses: Influenza, HIV, SARS‑CoV‑2, norovirus.
- Parasites: Plasmodium (malaria), hookworm, pinworm, Giardia.
- Fungi: Candida (thrush), dermatophytes (ringworm), Aspergillus.
Protection Strategies
- Hand hygiene, vaccination, safe food handling, vector control, antimicrobial stewardship.
- Maintain a healthy microbiome—it competes with pathogens and supports immunity.
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