These conditions are contagious and can spread through person-to-person contact.Ī study in Trends in Microbiology found that fungal pathogens are evolving a capacity for memory.
Common fungal skin conditions include athlete’s foot and ringworm. There are thousands of species of fungi, some of which cause disease in humans.
They can release toxins that damage tissues and cause illness.ĭoctors typically prescribe antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, but some bacteria are becoming resistant to these drugs. There are five main types of pathogens: Bacteriaīacteria are microscopic pathogens that reproduce rapidly after entering the body. The body can easily fight off some pathogens, but others are potentially fatal. The human body’s immune system acts as a defense against pathogens. As with any organism, pathogens prioritize survival and reproduction. Another name for a pathogen is an infectious agent, as they cause infections. Share on Pinterest Bacteria, viruses, and fungi are all types of pathogens.Ī pathogen brings disease to its host.