Common Pathogens and Nonpathogens

Nonpathogens

harmless and do not cause disease

normal flora

micro-organisms that live on or within the body without causing disease. Responsible for many important functions, such as synthesizing and excreting vitamins as well as preventing colonization of pathogens

Viruses

Ex: Rhinovirus (common cold), Varicella (chicken pox), HIV, AIDS, Hepatitis, Coronavirus

Bacteria

Examples: E. coli (urinary tract infections), Vibrio cholerae (cholera). Bordetella pertussis (whooping cough)

Fungi

Examples: Histoplasmosis (lung infection passed on by certain bird/bat droppings). Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot), Candida albicans (yeast infection)

Parasites

Examples: Toxoplasmosis, Pinworm, Tapeworm, Scabies, Lice, Lyme disease