A List Of Bacteria Pathogens

Everyday, humans get exposed to millions of cells of bacteria. Some types of bacteria help to partially digest food, other types reside on the skin as part of the natural flora. The same bacteria that is beneficial in one situation can cause infections under the right conditions. These organisms, called opportunistic pathogens, attack when a weak immune system presents itself. The most dangerous bacteria have pathogenic activity at all times.

Escherichia Coli

Escherichia coli, also known as E. coli, has many variations. The bacteria exhibits specific antigens on the cell surface that change the pathogenicity potential. Some types of E. coli benefit human beings in many ways. By living in the intestinal tract, E. coli not only helps humans to produce a variety of vitamins, but also it helps to fight off infections by outcompeting more dangerous bacteria that make it into the intestines for nutrients. The bad E. coli, known as the O157:H7 strain, does not help with nutrient production. This pathogenic strain produces toxins, which cause bleeding and diarrhea.

Salmonella Enterica

Salmonella enterica causes the infection salmonellosis, common in raw or undercooked meats and poultry products. While the bacteria is commonly present in these foods, cooking to proper temperatures neutralizes the pathogen. Salmonella causes gastric problems by penetrating into the cells of the intestine. Once there and multiplying, the Salmonella may also get into the bloodstream, which can spread the infection around the body and cause septicemia.

Neisseria Meningitidis

Neisseria meningitidis is responsible for causing the disease bacterial meningitis. Bacterial meningitis is an extremely dangerous condition that inflames the tissues surrounding the spinal cord and brain. This pathogen can cause severe brain damage and developmental disabilities.

Listeria Monocytogenes

Listeria monocytogenes causes the food-borne pathogen listeriosis. Listeria survives the cold temperatures of a refrigerator, unlike many other pathogenic bacteria. Listeria is especially dangerous in pregnant women, as it takes advantage of women with weakened immune systems and can cross the placental barrier to infect the baby. Many bacteria cannot cross this barrier, which keeps the circulatory system of the mother and baby separate. Because of this ability to potentially cross over the barrier, expectant mothers should avoid foods that harbor Listeria. Avoiding soft cheeses and undercooked or raw meats, including lunch meats, can help avoid a problem with listeriosis during pregnancy.