Pathogens and Human Illness

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to pathogens and human illness as covered in the lecture notes.

Germ theory

Theory that microscopic particles cause certain diseases.

Pathogen

Disease-causing agent.

Vector

Anything that carries and transmits a pathogen.

Eliminate

To completely remove or get rid of something.

Infectious disease

Can be passed from person to person; caused by germs (e.g., flu, polio).

Noninfectious disease

Cannot be passed from person to person (e.g., cancer, heart disease); caused by genetic or lifestyle factors, not germs.

Germ Theory of Disease

Specific microorganisms cause specific diseases.

Bacteria

Single-celled organisms that cause illness by releasing toxins or destroying body cells.

Viruses

Strands of DNA or RNA with protein coats that enter and hijack healthy cells to reproduce, causing diseases like the flu and colds.

Fungi

Can be multicellular or single-celled organisms that infect by piercing healthy cells and stealing nutrients, thriving in warm, damp areas.

Protozoa

Single-celled organisms that prey on other cells and require host cells to complete life cycles.

Parasites

Organisms that feed on a host, potentially killing or weakening it by draining resources.

Direct contact

Requires physical touch between infected and healthy individuals.

Indirect contact

Pathogens survive on surfaces (e.g., tables, doorknobs, sponges).

Airborne transmission

Pathogens released by coughing/sneezing.

Vector transmission

Organism or object that carries/transmits a pathogen.