Pathogenic Bacteria: Overview

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Some bacteria cause diseases. These are called pathogenic bacteria.

Although some people think all bacteria are bad for you, this is nonsense. Most bacteria don't have anything to do with us, some are good for you and it would make you sick if they left you. But for some bacteria it would be better if you kept your distance.

In case you are interested in disease-causing bacteria, this cateogory gives a good introduction. It only contains two exibits:

What are pathogens exactly? is explained here. It is always good to know your enemy.
How bacteria cause disease is described in the exhibit Pathogenicity.

 

Once you have read these exhibits, you will realize how important it is to stay clear of pathogenic bacteria. In our category Food and water safety it is explained what you can do to decrease your risk of a bacterial infection. Don't forget to also read about the good bacteria in food.

But you are not helpless against pathogenic bacteria. Your body is well equipped to fight back, and that is explained in the category How we fight bacteria.