Diseases Flashcards
What is a pathogen?
A microorganism that causes disease.
Compare bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi.
Bacteria reproduce independently; viruses need a host; parasites live off hosts; fungi thrive in moist areas.
How do bacteria cause disease? How are they treated?
Bacteria release toxins or damage tissues; treated with antibiotics.
How does a fever protect the body?
Fever slows pathogen growth and boosts immune response.
How do vaccinations prevent disease?
Vaccines train the immune system to recognise and fight pathogens.
How do viruses cause disease? How are they treated?
Viruses invade host cells to replicate; treated with antivirals or vaccines.
Difference between a bacterium and a virus?
Bacteria are living cells treated with antibiotics; viruses need a host and are treated with antivirals.
Difference between a cold and the flu?
Colds are milder and caused by rhinoviruses; flu is more severe and caused by influenza.
How do parasites cause disease? Example?
Parasites rely on hosts; malaria is a mosquito-borne parasitic disease.
How do fungi cause disease? Examples?
Fungi invade tissues; tinea affects skin, thrush affects mouth/genitals.
