Pathogens, bacteria, and viruses are often interchangeably used to refer to microorganisms, a few of which are considered harmful to health. The aisles in a grocery market are lined with products, some claiming to get rid of all pathogens, a few claiming to eliminate all possible viruses.
Often due to lack of correct information, there can be many misconceptions regarding the differences between pathogens, viruses, and bacteria. Understanding how pathogens work can help keep you and your friends and family healthy.
What are Pathogens?
Pathogens are disease-causing microorganisms. Pathogens are of different kinds such as viruses, bacteria, fungus, and parasites. Pathogens can be found anywhere including in the air, food and the surfaces that you come in contact with.
While often confused as the same thing, bacteria and viruses are kinds of pathogens.
What are Viruses?
Viruses are biological agents that lack the ability to thrive and reproduce outside the cells of a living host. Depending on the type of virus, they can be infectious for different amounts of time.
Viruses can cause a wide range of illnesses, both short-term as well as long-term. They can affect your respiratory systems, gastrointestinal systems, reproductive systems, and even the brain and liver. Some examples of common diseases caused by viruses are:
- Common Cold
- Flu
- Chicken Pox
- Measles
- STD’s
What is Bacteria?
Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that live almost everywhere. Bacteria are more complex organisms than viruses and don’t need a living host to thrive or reproduce. Bacteria can be beneficial as well as harmful.
Beneficial Harmful Examples
Beneficial bacteria can be found in dairy products like milk and yogurt. We also carry bacteria in our gut which help digest food and destroy disease-causing organisms.
Harmful Bacteria Examples
Harmful bacteria produce toxins which could make you fall ill. Bacteria can cause infections like tuberculosis, strep throat, and urinary tract infections. Common examples of harmful bacteria are:
- MRSA
- E. Coli
- Salmonella
The best way to prevent infections is to stop the spreading of pathogens. This would include disinfecting areas regularly. Disinfecting eliminates microbial life such as bacteria and virus. At Service Master Elite Cleaning Services, we are committed to ensuring the good health and safety of all our patrons. Our employees possess the right skills, experience, and equipment to clean and sanitize your facility effectively and prevent any disease and infections.
