Germs Can Harm Us Too

 WHAT ARE GERMS?

    Germs are all around us, within everything we touch or come in contact with, there are various ways that germs spread throughout environments and spaces. Let's begin with what germs are, they are defined as microorganisms that derive from certain diseases or health conditions. 

    Germs are sneaky and they enter the body without realization and feeling, microscopes are used to visually detect/see germs. We don't feel/notice germs until symptoms attack our bodies, cavities, and internal systems. There are four different types of germs that are commonly mentioned or recognized. 

4 Different Bacteria Types

1. Bacteria: micro, single-celled organisms that thrive from environmental nutrients which boost their life expectancy; bacteria can reproduce inside/outside of the body which results in infections. Bacteria commonly cause infections in the ears, throat, mouth, stomach or sinus cavities. Not all bacteria is BAD, some bacteria are full of nutrients & vitamins which are healthy for the body, to maintain balance & overall functionality. 
2. Viruses: in order to replicate/grow these types of germs need to be inside living cells, they don't survive long without living matter; whenever the virus attaches to its host symptoms/effects are felt immediately. Common viruses are chickenpox, measles, stomach flu, etc.
3. Fungi: multi-celled plant-like organisms who gain energy through people, plants, and/or animals; they thrive and exist more in damp, warm environments. A common fungi that humans come in direct contact with is athlete's foot or MRSA, both are inflammatory skin infections that result from fungal contact.
4. Protoza: single-celled organisms that reproduce/breed and spread disease within aquatic environments, they multiply inside of the water. Most of these germs are commonly found in intestinal or digestion tracts such as the intestines, stomach, or colon. 

    There are various ways to protect yourself from common viruses, bacteria, and fungal infections such as washing your hands consistently. You should clean your hands before/after you eat or drink anything, before/after you play with any toys, athletic or cooking equipment. Washing your hands can prevent you from getting easily passed viruses and infections which are very common in daycares, schools, and shopping malls. 

    Limit your personal spread of germs by covering your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing in public spaces, this can decrease the spread of germs. Take care of your immune system, boost your immune system, and strengthen your immune system. There are ways to improve your immune system by increasing vitamin and mineral daily intake, increasing your clean water intake as well by incorporating different vegetables into your diet.