Germs - Microorganisms Impacting Health

Germs are microorganisms that can cause diseases and infections. Understanding germs is crucial for maintaining hygiene and health.
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Microbiology | Infectious Diseases | Hygiene Practices | Pathogens | Microbial Infections
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez

Germs FAQ


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How many types of germs are there?

Germs are found all over the world, in all kinds of places. They can invade plants, animals, and people, and sometimes they can make us sick. The four major types of germs are: Bacteria (say: bak-TEER-ee-uh): These tiny, one-celled creatures get nutrients from their environments in order to live. In some cases that environment is a human body.

Where do germs live?

Germs live everywhere. You can find germs (microbes) in the air; on food, plants and animals; in the soil and water — and on just about every other surface, including your body. Most germs won't harm you. Your immune system protects you against infectious agents.

What is a source of germs?

A Source is an infectious agent or germ and refers to a virus, bacteria, or other microbe. In healthcare settings, germs are found in many places. People are one source of germs including: People can be sick with symptoms of an infection or colonized with germs (not have symptoms of an infection but able to pass the germs to others).

How do healthcare professionals classify 'germs' (microbes)?

Healthcare professionals classify 'germs' (microbes) into different groups. The most common groups of microbes that cause illness are described below. There are many different types of bacteria. Some bacteria are good and are helpful and protective to humans.

What is a germ in biology?

A germ is a tiny organism that causes a disease in a plant or animal. Scientists call these microbes or microorganisms. They are so tiny that they can only be seen through a microscope. Several different kinds of organisms can be germs, including bacteria, viruses, protozoans, and fungi. But only some of these are harmful.

Germs References

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