What is a pathogen?

A pathogen is a microorganism or another factor that can cause disease.


It is important to note that not all pathogens are microorganisms - for example, viruses are not classified as living organisms but they can still cause disease.

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In the context of pathogens and disease, what is a vector? 

A vector is a living organism that transmits a pathogen from an infected organism to another organism.

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What are the four main types of pathogen?

  1. Bacteria
  2. Viruses
  3. Fungi
  4. Protoctists

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How do bacteria usually cause damage to body cells?

Bacteria usually cause damage by producing toxins.

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Why are mosquitoes considered vectors?

Mosquitoes are considered vectors because they transmit the pathogen (a protist) that causes the disease malaria.

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Which type of pathogen causes tuberculosis and how is it transmitted?

Tuberculosis is caused by bacteria and is transmitted via airborne droplets and contaminated food and drink. 

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How is bacterial meningitis transmitted?

Bacterial meningitis is transmitted via airborne droplets. 

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Which type of pathogen causes HIV/AIDS and how is it transmitted?

HIV/AIDS is caused by a virus and is transmitted via exchange of bodily fluids. 

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Which type of pathogen causes influenza and how is it transmitted?

Influenza is caused by a virus and is transmitted via airborne droplets and contaminated objects.

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Which type of pathogen causes Athlete's foot and how is it transmitted?

Athlete's foot is caused by a fungus and is transmitted via contaminated objects.

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Which type of pathogen causes ringworm and how is it transmitted?

Ringworm is caused by a fungus and is transmitted via direct contact.

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Which type of pathogen causes malaria and how is it transmitted?

Malaria is caused by a protoctist and is transmitted via a mosquito vector. 

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