We are constantly exposed to micro-organisms, both good and bad. Most micro-organisms we come into contact with during our daily lives are harmless. Some even help keep us healthy. But certain micro-organisms - when in the wrong place - can pose real health hazards. We call these harmful micro-organisms "germs".
Some exposure to germs can help build up our immune systems, helping us to fight infections and stay healthy. Exposure to others, however, can cause food poisoning, sickness and diarrhoea, so it makes sense to practice the good hygiene and cleanliness that will prevent these problems.
Examples of Micro-organisms
Bacteria:
Salmonella bacteria can cause food poisoning.
Viruses:
Rhinoviruses can cause colds. Herpes simplex causes cold sores.
Fungi:
Candida can cause thrush. Trichophyton can cause athlete's foot.
Parasites:
Giardia can cause diarrhoea.
Where Are Germs Found?
Germs live all around us - in soil, air, water, food, animals, plants and people. Each type of germ has different needs for survival. Viruses have to be inside a living organism (a person, animal or, in some cases, a plant) to grow and multiply. Bacteria can grow and multiply both inside and outside their host, provided they have some warmth and moisture. Some bacteria even form protective spores that can survive for a long time in the environment while they wait for favorable conditions to return.
Bacteria can grow and divide every 20 minutes. One single bacteria cell can become more than 8 million cells in less than 24 hours.
