Explain the biological mechanisms by which diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, protists, and fungi are spread among animals and plants.
Evaluate and explain various effective methods to reduce or prevent the spread of these infectious diseases.
Define pathogens strictly as microorganisms that cause infectious diseases, encompassing viruses, bacteria, protists, or fungi.
Understand that pathogens can cross-infect both plants and animals and can be transmitted via direct physical contact, contaminated water, or airborne pathways.
Describe the ability of bacteria and viruses to reproduce rapidly once effectively established inside the host body.
Explain how bacteria can cause severe illness by producing active poisons (toxins) that directly damage host tissues.
Describe how viruses cause systemic damage by living and reproducing exclusively inside host cells, ultimately leading to total cell destruction.
