A microorganism that is capable of causing disease in a susceptible host is

A microorganism that is capable of causing disease in a susceptible host is

• A. Pathogen
• B. Contamination
• C. Exposure
• D. Direct contact

Answer: (A)

A pathogen is a microorganism that can cause disease in a susceptible host. It has the potential to harm; whether disease actually occurs depends on factors like the dose, virulence of the organism, the host’s immune status, and the route of entry. Contamination just means the organism is present somewhere, not necessarily capable of causing disease. Exposure refers to coming into contact with the organism, which is a step toward possible infection but does not define the organism itself. Direct contact is a way the pathogen can be transmitted, not the name of the organism. So, the best description for a microorganism capable of causing disease is a pathogen.

A pathogen is a microorganism that can cause disease in a susceptible host. It has the potential to harm; whether disease actually occurs depends on factors like the dose, virulence of the organism, the host’s immune status, and the route of entry. Contamination just means the organism is present somewhere, not necessarily capable of causing disease. Exposure refers to coming into contact with the organism, which is a step toward possible infection but does not define the organism itself. Direct contact is a way the pathogen can be transmitted, not the name of the organism. So, the best description for a microorganism capable of causing disease is a pathogen.