All about GermsFrom an early age most of us were taught that germs are bad things that can make us ill. If we each had a pound for every time we’ve been asked to wash our hands, just think how rich we’d be.
But beyond this basic understanding, most people’s knowledge gets a little bit sketchy.
So, what are Germs?
The word ‘germ’ is actually a very general term we use to describe the microscopic organisms that can cause infection and disease.
Germs live everywhere. You can find germs in the air, on food, plants and animals, in the soil, in the water, and on just about every other surface - including your own body.
There are four major types of germs: bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.
Most germs won't harm you. Your immune system protects you against a multitude of infectious agents. However, some germs are formidable adversaries because they are constantly mutating to break your immune system's defenses. Knowing more about how germs work can increase your chances of avoiding infection. Read on to learn more about the most common germs that make us ill - bacteria and viruses.
Understanding infection vs disease
The word ‘germ’ is actually a very general term we use to describe the microscopic organisms that can cause infection and disease. Infection, often the first step, occurs when bacteria, viruses or other microbes enter your body and begin to multiply. Disease occurs when the cells in your body are damaged - as a result of the infection - signs and symptoms of an illness appear.
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.
Warding off germs and infection
What's the best way to stay disease-free? Find out here
But beyond this basic understanding, most people’s knowledge gets a little bit sketchy.
So, what are Germs?
The word ‘germ’ is actually a very general term we use to describe the microscopic organisms that can cause infection and disease.
Germs live everywhere. You can find germs in the air, on food, plants and animals, in the soil, in the water, and on just about every other surface - including your own body.
There are four major types of germs: bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.
Most germs won't harm you. Your immune system protects you against a multitude of infectious agents. However, some germs are formidable adversaries because they are constantly mutating to break your immune system's defenses. Knowing more about how germs work can increase your chances of avoiding infection. Read on to learn more about the most common germs that make us ill - bacteria and viruses.
Understanding infection vs disease
The word ‘germ’ is actually a very general term we use to describe the microscopic organisms that can cause infection and disease. Infection, often the first step, occurs when bacteria, viruses or other microbes enter your body and begin to multiply. Disease occurs when the cells in your body are damaged - as a result of the infection - signs and symptoms of an illness appear.
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.
Warding off germs and infection
What's the best way to stay disease-free? Find out here
The word ‘germ’ is actually a very general term we use to describe the microscopic organisms that can cause infection and disease.
Germs live everywhere. You can find germs in the air, on food, plants and animals, in the soil, in the water, and on just about every other surface - including your own body.
Germs live everywhere. You can find germs in the air, on food, plants and animals, in the soil, in the water, and on just about every other surface - including your own body.