Which illnesses are caused by bacteria

Under a microscope, they look like balls, rods, or spirals. They are so small that a line of 1, could fit across a pencil eraser. Most types of don't make you sick. Many types are helpful. Some of them help to digest food, destroy disease-causing cells, and give the body needed vitamins.

Bacteria are also used in making healthy foods like yogurt and cheese. But infectious bacteria can make you ill. They reproduce quickly in your body. Many give off chemicals called toxins, which can damage tissue and make you sick. Examples of bacteria that cause infections include Streptococcus , Staphylococcus , and E. Antibiotics are the usual treatment. Microbes cause infectious diseases such as flu and measles. There is also strong evidence that microbes may contribute to many non—infectious chronic diseases such as some forms of cancer and coronary heart disease.

Different diseases are caused by different types of micro-organisms. Microbes that cause disease are called pathogens. To cause an infection, microbes must enter our bodies. The site at which they enter is known as the portal of entry. An infection can be seen as a battle between the invading pathogens and host. How does the immune system work?

This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Infectious diseases are disorders caused by organisms — such as bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. What are superbugs and how can I protect myself from infection? Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Facts about infectious disease.

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