Infection Control Quiz

The correct answer is pathogenic. Pathogenic bacteria are those that can cause diseases in humans, animals, or plants. They have the ability to invade and multiply within the host's body, leading to various illnesses and infections. These bacteria can produce toxins or damage tissues, resulting in symptoms and health complications. It is important to identify and treat pathogenic bacteria to prevent the spread of diseases and promote public health.

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). HIV weakens the immune system over time, making it difficult for the body to fight off infections and diseases. This eventually leads to the development of AIDS. The other options mentioned, such as the herpes virus, contaminated food, and poor personal hygiene, are not the direct cause of AIDS.

Bacteria are one-celled microorganisms that can be found almost everywhere. They are classified as prokaryotes, meaning they lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. Bacteria can be beneficial or harmful to humans and the environment. They play essential roles in nutrient cycling, food production, and decomposition. Some bacteria can cause diseases in humans, such as strep throat or pneumonia. Therefore, bacteria are the correct answer in this case.

Pus is a thick, yellowish fluid that is produced as a response to infection. It is composed of dead white blood cells, bacteria, and tissue debris. The presence of pus is a clear indication of a bacterial infection as it is the body's way of fighting off the infection and removing harmful substances. Bleeding, a cold, and parasites are not specific signs of a bacterial infection and can be caused by various other factors.

HIV is not transmitted through kissing or hugging because the virus is not present in saliva or sweat. HIV is primarily transmitted through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles among IV drug users, and contact with infected blood through cuts or sores. Kissing or hugging does not involve direct exchange of bodily fluids that could contain the virus, making it a safe form of physical contact.

Streptococci are pus-forming bacteria that are known to cause strep throat and blood poisoning. They are spherical in shape and often form chains or pairs. Streptococci are commonly found in the throat and can cause various infections, including strep throat, scarlet fever, and cellulitis. They are also responsible for more severe infections like necrotizing fasciitis and sepsis. Staphylococci, on the other hand, are another type of bacteria that can cause similar infections but are not specifically mentioned in the question. Bacilli and diplococci are different types of bacteria and are not associated with strep throat or blood poisoning.

Spirilla are bacteria that have a corkscrew or spiral shape. They are characterized by their long, rigid bodies and can be found in various environments such as water and soil. Unlike staphylococci, which are spherical clusters, spirilla have a distinct spiral shape. Diplococci, on the other hand, are bacteria that exist as pairs of spherical cells, while bacilli are rod-shaped bacteria. Therefore, the correct answer for bacteria with a corkscrew or spiral shape is spirilla.

AIDS, or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, is a disease that weakens and breaks down the body's immune system. It is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which attacks and destroys the CD4 cells, a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight off infections and diseases. As the immune system becomes compromised, individuals with AIDS are more susceptible to opportunistic infections and certain types of cancers. Therefore, AIDS is the correct answer for the disease that breaks down the body's immune system.

Cocci is a type of bacteria that is spherical or round in shape. This shape allows them to easily divide and reproduce, as they can divide in multiple planes. The round shape also helps them to resist external pressure and maintain their structural integrity. Additionally, this shape enables them to attach to surfaces and form colonies. Therefore, the correct answer is round shape.

Pathogenic bacteria are capable of causing disease in plant or animal tissue. Unlike nonpathogenic bacteria, which do not cause harm, pathogenic bacteria have the ability to invade and multiply within the host organism, leading to the development of various diseases. This can occur through the production of toxins or by directly damaging the cells and tissues of the host. Acidophilus and saprophytes are not typically associated with causing disease, making pathogenic bacteria the most likely cause.

Cocci rarely show self-movement because they are typically spherical in shape and lack the structures necessary for independent movement, such as flagella or cilia. Instead, they rely on external factors such as air or fluid currents to move.

The spirilla bacteria Trepnema pallida is known to cause syphilis. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can have various symptoms and stages if left untreated. It can lead to serious health complications, including damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Therefore, it is important to diagnose and treat syphilis early to prevent further complications.

Bacilli is the correct answer because it refers to a type of bacteria that has a rod shape. The term "bacilli" is derived from the Latin word "bacillus," meaning small rod. This shape distinguishes bacilli from other types of bacteria, such as diplococci (which are spherical), staphylococci (which are round clusters), and spirilla (which are spiral-shaped).

During their inactive stage, certain bacteria form outer coverings called spores. Spores are a protective mechanism that allows bacteria to survive unfavorable conditions such as extreme temperatures or lack of nutrients. These spores are highly resistant and can remain dormant for long periods until conditions become favorable again. Once conditions improve, the spores can germinate and give rise to active bacterial cells.

Measles and hepatitis are both diseases caused by viruses. Measles is caused by the measles virus, which is highly contagious and primarily affects children. It is characterized by a rash, high fever, cough, and runny nose. Hepatitis, on the other hand, refers to inflammation of the liver and can be caused by different types of hepatitis viruses, such as hepatitis A, B, or C. Hepatitis can lead to liver damage and can be transmitted through contaminated food or water, blood transfusions, or sexual contact. Both measles and hepatitis are serious diseases that can have long-term health consequences if not properly treated.