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germs

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

Germs are tiny living things that can make you sick. They are so small that you can't see them with your eyes, but they are all around us.

Germs are classified into three main groups:

  • Viruses: Viruses are tiny particles that can only reproduce inside living cells. They can cause a wide variety of diseases, including the common cold, the flu, and HIV/AIDS.
  • Bacteria: Bacteria are single-celled organisms that can live in many different environments. They can cause a wide variety of diseases, including strep throat, food poisoning, and pneumonia.
  • Fungi: Fungi are living things that are similar to plants, but they don't have chlorophyll. They can cause a variety of diseases, including athlete's foot, ringworm, and yeast infections.

Germs can spread through contact with an infected person or animal, through contaminated food or water, or through the air.

There are many ways to prevent the spread of germs, including:

  • Washing your hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
  • Cooking food thoroughly.
  • Drinking bottled water or water that has been boiled.
  • Vaccinating yourself against diseases.

How can the word be used?

The germ theory of disease states that germs are the cause of disease.

germs

Different forms of the word

Noun: germ.

Adjective: germy.

Verb: to germ.

Synonym: microbe.

Etymology

The word "germ" comes from the Latin word "germen", which means "sprout" or "bud". The word was first used in English in the 16th century to refer to the seed or egg of an organism.

Question

What are germs?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question: What are the different types of germs?

Answer:

There are four main types of germs: bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

  • Bacteria: Bacteria are single-celled organisms that are found everywhere in the environment. Some bacteria are harmless, while others can cause disease.
  • Viruses: Viruses are even smaller than bacteria and can only reproduce inside living cells. Viruses can cause a wide variety of diseases, including the common cold, the flu, and HIV/AIDS.
  • Fungi: Fungi are multicellular organisms that can be found in soil, water, and on plants. Some fungi are harmless, while others can cause diseases such as athlete's foot and ringworm.
  • Parasites: Parasites are organisms that live on or in other organisms and get their food from them. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases, including malaria, toxoplasmosis, and tapeworms.

Germs can spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, through the air, and through bodily fluids. They can also be spread through insect bites.

It is important to take steps to prevent the spread of germs, such as washing your hands frequently, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and avoiding contact with people who are sick.