Germs And Bacteria - Understanding Microbial Risks

Microscopic organisms that can cause infections and diseases, highlighting the importance of hygiene and sanitation practices.
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Microbiology | Infection Control | Germ Prevention | Bacterial Infections
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Germs And Bacteria FAQ


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What is the difference between bacteria and germs?

Germs refer to microorganisms, especially ones which causes disease while bacteria refer to microorganisms, usually one-celled, that can be found everywhere. The germs can be worms, protists, fungi, bacteria or virus while the bacteria are unicellular prokaryotes. Germs can be either eukaryotes or prokaryotes while bacteria are prokaryotes.

Is a germ a disease?

Germs are microscopic organisms that can cause diseases in living organisms such as plants, animals, and humans. Germs can be worms, protists, fungi, bacteria, or virus. A germ typically refers to very small seed that can germinate or multiply inside the body, forming a disease. Hence, it is a kind of infectious organism.

How do germs get into your body?

Some germs (typically viruses) are inhaled with respiratory droplets that are produced when a nearby infected person coughs, sneezes, sings, exercises, or talks. When they get into your body, harmful germs multiply and make you sick. Sometimes the normal germs in your body get in the wrong place.

How do scientists classify bacteria?

One way scientists classify bacteria is by their shape. Another way scientists classify bacteria is by their shape. There are three basic bacterial shapes: Spheres or ball-shaped (cocci bacteria). Rod-shaped bacteria (bacilli). Spirals or helixes (spirochetes). Scientists also classify bacteria based on their need for oxygen to live and grow.

Germs And Bacteria References

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