Harmful bacteria are called pathogenic bacteria. These bacteria cause diseases and illnesses in humans and other organisms. They produce toxins (poisons) that disrupt normal bodily functions, leading to infection.
Examples of Pathogenic Bacteria
Several examples of pathogenic bacteria highlight the diverse range of illnesses they can cause:
- Streptococcus: Causes strep throat. [Reference: Pathogens are microorganisms that can cause disease. They can reproduce quickly in your body and give off poisons (toxins) that can cause infection. Harmful bacteria examples include: Streptococcus: Bacteria that cause strep throat. Staphylococcus: Bacteria that cause staph infections.]
- Staphylococcus: Causes staph infections. [Reference: Pathogens are microorganisms that can cause disease. They can reproduce quickly in your body and give off poisons (toxins) that can cause infection. Harmful bacteria examples include: Streptococcus: Bacteria that cause strep throat. Staphylococcus: Bacteria that cause staph infections.]
- Aerococcus urinae: Found in urine and causes urinary tract infections (UTIs). [Reference: What are the risks of bacteria? · Aerococcus urinae: Bacteria in urine that cause urinary tract infections.]
- Chlamydia trachomatis: A bacterium causing various sexually transmitted infections. [Reference: What are the risks of bacteria? · Chlamydia trachomatis: Bacteria that ...]
- Clostridium perfringens: A cause of food poisoning. [Reference: Clostridium perfringens; E. coli; Listeria; Norovirus; Salmonella.]
- E. coli: Certain strains cause severe foodborne illnesses. [Reference: Clostridium perfringens; E. coli; Listeria; Norovirus; Salmonella.]
- Listeria: Another bacterium that can contaminate food and cause illness. [Reference: Clostridium perfringens; E. coli; Listeria; Norovirus; Salmonella.]
- Salmonella: A common cause of food poisoning. [Reference: Clostridium perfringens; E. coli; Listeria; Norovirus; Salmonella.]
Harmful bacteria are also sometimes referred to as disease-causing bacteria or simply bacteria within the context of describing an infection. It's important to note that not all bacteria are harmful; many are beneficial to human health and the environment.
