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Pathogens and how diseases spread

Infection and response • Communicable diseases

Key concepts

What you'll likely be quizzed about

  • A pathogen is a microorganism that transmits a communicable disease from one organism to another.
  • Pathogens consist of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protists and share a simple life cycle: they infect a host, reproduce, and spread to new hosts.
  • Most pathogens can survive brief periods outside a host but need host cells to reproduce.
  • Viruses replicate inside host cells, while many bacteria and protists reproduce independently when environmental conditions are favorable.

Flashcards

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How do bacteria reproduce?

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Bacteria reproduce asexually by binary fission, producing two identical daughter cells from one parent bacterium.

Key notes

Important points to keep in mind

Pathogens infect a host, reproduce, and spread to new hosts.

Viruses replicate inside host cells and do not conduct all life processes.

Bacteria reproduce by binary fission and can form resistant strains.

Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist environments and spread via spores.

Protists often require vectors or water for transmission, such as malaria via mosquitoes.

Major transmission routes include airborne droplets, contaminated water, direct contact, and vectors.

Vaccination reduces susceptible hosts and lowers transmission of viral diseases.

Sewage treatment and safe water supply prevent waterborne diseases like cholera.

Antiseptics and handwashing minimize spread from contaminated surfaces.

Removal and burning of infected plant material prevents fungal spread.

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