Pathogen Definition - Types, Causes, and Diseases

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A pathogen is an organism that can cause disease in its host. These pathogens are able to evade the host's immune system, leading to associated illnesses. They use the host's resources to multiply before leaving and spreading to a new host.

Pathogens come in different forms and can spread in various ways such as through skin contact, bodily fluids, or contact with contaminated surfaces. Some even exist as airborne particles. The most common types of pathogens are viruses, bacteria, and fungi.

Pathogens are responsible for a wide range of diseases. Examples of diseases caused by viral pathogens include influenza, chickenpox, and hepatitis.

Bacterial pathogens, on the other hand, can cause diseases such as pneumonia, cholera, and typhoid fever. Fungal pathogens can cause conditions like athlete's foot and yeast infections.

Main article: An In-depth Look at Pathogens and their Types

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Pathogens are tiny organisms that can cause diseases. They include viruses, bacteria, protozoans, and fungi.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Pathogens are microorganisms that have the potential to cause infectious diseases.

The five primary types of pathogens are viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoans.


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