Which type of bacteria can cause disease?

Pathogenic bacteria are those that are specifically known to cause disease in humans and other organisms. These bacteria have the ability to invade host tissues, evade the immune system, and produce toxins or other factors that disrupt normal bodily functions, leading to illness. Examples of pathogenic bacteria include ones that cause illnesses such as strep throat, tuberculosis, and food poisoning.

In contrast, non-pathogenic bacteria generally do not cause disease and often play beneficial roles in their environments, such as in digestion or nutrient cycling. Beneficial bacteria are those that actively contribute to health, such as those found in probiotics, which help maintain gut flora and support the immune system. Commensal bacteria can also be part of the microbiome and typically coexist without causing harm, often living on the skin or in the gut without leading to disease.

Given this context, the correct identification of pathogenic bacteria is essential in understanding infection control and disease prevention, as recognizing the harmful types of bacteria enables effective management and treatment of infections.