Microorganisms, also known as microbes, are tiny living organisms that are invisible to the naked eye. They include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa and are found in almost every environment on Earth, including soil, water, and air.
While many microorganisms are harmless or beneficial, some can cause diseases in humans, animals, and plants. Diseases caused by microorganisms are known as infectious diseases, and they can spread from person to person, from animals to humans, or through contaminated food, water, or surfaces.
One example of a disease caused by bacteria is tuberculosis (TB), caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. TB mainly affects the lungs but can also affect other body parts, such as the kidneys, spine, and brain. Symptoms of TB include coughing, chest pain, fever, and fatigue. TB is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can be treated with antibiotics.
Another example of a disease caused by a microorganism is influenza, which is caused by the influenza virus. Influenza, also known as the flu, is a respiratory illness that can cause fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches. The flu is highly contagious and can spread through the air or by touching contaminated surfaces. Vaccines are available to prevent the flu, and antiviral medications can be used to treat it.
Microorganisms also cause fungal infections. One example is an athlete's foot, caused by a type of fungus called Trichophyton. Athlete's foot causes itching, burning, and cracking of the skin on the feet and can be spread in damp environments, such as locker rooms or swimming pools. Antifungal medications can be used to treat athletes' feet.
