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A bacteriophage is a virus that infects bacteria A bacteriophage, or phage for short, is a virus that infects bacteria. Like other types of viruses, bacteriophages vary a lot in their shape and genetic material.
How does a viral germ invade the body?
Viruses are much smaller than cells. In fact, viruses are basically just capsules that contain genetic material. To reproduce, viruses invade cells in your body, hijacking the machinery that makes cells work. Host cells are often eventually destroyed during this process.
What are bacteria and virus called?
What Are Germs? The term “germs” refers to the microscopic bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa that can cause disease. Washing hands well and often is the best way to prevent germs from leading to infections and sickness.
How do bacteria and viruses invade the human body?
Entering the Human Host Microorganisms capable of causing disease—pathogens—usually enter our bodies through the mouth, eyes, nose, or urogenital openings, or through wounds or bites that breach the skin barrier. Organisms can spread—or be transmitted—by several routes.
How does the immune system respond to an infection?
In response to infection, your immune system springs into action. An army of white blood cells, antibodies and other mechanisms goes to work to rid your body of whatever is causing the infection. For instance, in fighting off the common cold, your body might react with fever, coughing and sneezing.
Which is the most virulent bacteria in the air?
Bacteria in the air put those who are not immunized, or have weakened immune systems, at risk of infection. Tuberculosis, which infects the lungs, is one of the most virulent airborne bacteria in the world because of its easy access to the air.
How are viruses different from bacteria and protozoans?
1 Bacteria. Bacteria are one-celled organisms visible only with a microscope. 2 Viruses. Viruses are much smaller than cells. 3 Fungi. There are many varieties of fungi, and we eat quite a few of them. 4 Protozoans. Protozoans are single-celled organisms that behave like tiny animals —
What’s the difference between a disease and an infection?
Understanding infection vs. disease. Infection, often the first step, occurs when bacteria, viruses or other microbes that cause disease enter your body and begin to multiply. Disease occurs when the cells in your body are damaged — as a result of the infection — and signs and symptoms of an illness appear.