What is disease causing microorganism called?

A disease-causing microorganism, also known as a pathogen, is a microorganism that causes disease in its host. Pathogens can be bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. They can spread through the air, water, food, or contact with an infected person or animal.

Some common examples of pathogens include:

* Bacteria: Salmonella, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus

* Viruses: Influenza virus, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus, measles virus

* Fungi: Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, Aspergillus fumigatus

* Parasites: Plasmodium falciparum (causes malaria), Trypanosoma brucei (causes African sleeping sickness), Schistosoma mansoni (causes schistosomiasis)

Pathogens can cause a wide range of symptoms, depending on the type of microorganism and the host's immune system. Some common symptoms of infection include fever, cough, diarrhea, vomiting, rash, and fatigue.

In some cases, infection can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia, meningitis, sepsis, and organ failure. Pathogens can also cause chronic diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and hepatitis.

The study of pathogens and the diseases they cause is called medical microbiology. Medical microbiologists work to develop new ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat infectious diseases.