Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated August 2025
Definition
Disease-causing organisms, also known as pathogens or parasites, are microorganisms or other agents that can cause illness or disease in living organisms. They can be bacteria, viruses, fungi, or protozoa.
Vector-Borne Diseases: Vector-borne diseases are illnesses transmitted by vectors such as mosquitoes or ticks that carry pathogens from one host to another.
Zoonotic Diseases: Zoonotic diseases are infections that can be transmitted between animals and humans.
Immune System: The immune system is the body's defense mechanism against pathogens. It recognizes and fights off foreign invaders to keep us healthy.