Are all pathogens living things

Answer 1

The term pathogen is derived from the Greek παθογένεια, "birth of pain." or "that which produces suffering" and that's basically what a pathogen is. It is an agent that causes pain and suffering to its host through disease or illness. Put more simply, a pathogen is anything that causes a disease.

The agents that cause these diseases are infectious microbes (more commonly known to people as germs or bugs) such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. There are many different types of these agents and not all of them are infectious or harmful. In fact the majority of them are harmless and some even beneficial. Therefore it is important to remember, that pathogens refer specifically to those agents that can cause disease, illness or harm to its host.

So yes, in answer to the question. pathogens are harmful bacteria (but not just bacteria) that cause disease.

Answer 2

By definition, all pathogens contain or produce disease to any living organism. However, not all diseases affect everyone or every thing the same way or even at all. Those pathogens that are harmful are referred to as "harmful pathogens" to distinguish them from those that are "not harmful" or "benign". Therefore, pathogens are not all harmful to humans.

Answer 3

Because the word pathogen describes a disease causing agent, it can be either living or nonliving. Pathogens such as certain bacterias and fungi are living, while viruses are pathogens that are nonliving.

Answer 4

Yes. Look the word up in a dictionary. Its not that hard.