256 – Causes and spread of infection
1. – Understand the cause of infection.
1.1 – Identify the differences between bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites.
Answer to 1.1 – The difference between bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites are:
Bacteria – Bacteria is a single celled organism, bacteria have evolved to be in any environment and can be found in any substance/surface and also in the human body, only 1% of bacteria is actually harmful. It’s bad or infectious bacteria that causes illness as they rapidly reproduce and produce a toxin that kills or mutates cells, bacteria is also self-sufficient.
Viruses – A viruses is a small capsule that holds DNA or RNA, viruses, unlike bacteria are not self-sufficient and need a ‘host’ in order to reproduce, for example: ‘Human Body’. When a virus enters the body, it enters some certain cells and takes over making them the new ‘host cell’ which makes the parts the virus needs to reproduce, the cells are eventually destroyed through this process. The most common virus is the ‘common cold’ which has no cure.
Fungi – Mould, yeast and mushrooms are all types of fungi. Fungi live in air, water, soil and on plants and they can live in the body, usually without causing illnesses. Some fungi have good uses, such as penicillin. Fungi are also used for in making certain foods such as bread and cheese. Certain types of fungi can cause illnesses such as Candida which is a yeast that can cause infections such as thrush.
Parasites – A parasite is a tiny organism that lives in or on a host (body) which they use in order to feed. Parasites can cause severe illnesses, there are 3 main types of parasites: protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites.
1.2 – Identify common illnesses and infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites.
Answer to 1.2 – Some common illnesses and infections caused by: Bacteria are Typhoid fever, MRSA, Bronchitis, Ear infection, Pneumonia, Syphilis, Chlamydia and Salmonella.
Viruses –