Bacteria

Exploring Bacteria

Bacteria exists almost everywhere you can think of. There are thousands of types of bacteria, most of which are completely harmless to humans. There are species of bacteria that are harmful while others are harmless. Bacteria are simple organisms that consist of one cell. They are among the smallest living things on earth. Bacteria can also be beneficial. For example, certain kinds of bacteria live in the intestines of humans and animals. These forms of bacteria are essential in the digestion process. They help the digestion process by eliminating and destroying harmful organisms. Intestinal bacteria also produce some vitamins needed by our bodies like folic acid and B-12.

Then there are harmful bacteria that cause diseases to humans, animals and plants. The diseases affecting humans include: pneumonia, tuberculosis, and bronchitis. These harmful types of bacteria enter the body through natural openings, such as the nose, mouth, and even breaks or cracks in the skin. In addition to the transfer of bacteria through natural openings, bacteria is also transferred from one person to another by means of food, water, and air. These bacteria prevent the body from functioning properly by destroying healthy cells. Certain bacteria produce poisons which cause such diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, and scarlet fever. Some poisons are produced by living bacteria while others are released only after bacteria dies. For example, a form of food poisoning called botulism is caused by poisons from bacteria in improperly canned foods. Bacteria that may, otherwise, live harmlessly in the body can also cause infections. However, the infections are only minor compared to poison- producing bacteria. An example of this would be if bacteria in the throat of a person with low immunity, reproduces faster than that person’s body can dispose of them. The result is an infection which is known as a sore throat.

As stated earlier, bacteria also cause diseases in...