What are pathogens?

What are pathogens?

• A. Micro-organisms that can make you sick if you eat them
• B. Non-living chemicals that enhance flavor
• C. Bacteria only
• D. Viruses only

Answer: (A)

Pathogens are living micro-organisms that can cause disease in people. They include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, and they can reach us through contaminated food or water, among other routes. When eaten or ingested, they may cause illness, which is why that description captures the concept most accurately of the options given. The other statements mischaracterize pathogens: non-living chemicals are not pathogens; pathogens are not limited to bacteria only; and pathogens are not limited to viruses only.

Pathogens are living micro-organisms that can cause disease in people. They include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, and they can reach us through contaminated food or water, among other routes. When eaten or ingested, they may cause illness, which is why that description captures the concept most accurately of the options given. The other statements mischaracterize pathogens: non-living chemicals are not pathogens; pathogens are not limited to bacteria only; and pathogens are not limited to viruses only.