Bacteria are among the oldest living organisms. They can live on almost anything, including food, water, plants and other living organisms. Bacteria can be beneficial for digestion and other bodily functions, but may also have negative and even deadly effects. Bacteria are classified by shape, biochemical properties, growth, reproduction, gram straining methods and where the organisms live.
Escherichia Coli
Escherichia coli, or E. coli, is a type of bacterium that inhabits the intestinal tracts in humans. The bacterium may exist in raw foods, water and milk, and can spread through contaminated products. The National Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that E. coli are a large and diverse group of bacteria, and that people of any age can become infected and have potentially life-threatening complications. Most strands of E. coli are harmless, but some cause fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea and respiratory problems, among other health symptoms.
Staphylococcus Aureus
Staphylococcus aureus is a bacterium that commonly causes staph infections. The bacterium exists in humans, animals, food, water and air. Infections resulting from the bacteria have symptoms such as a rash, boil or open wound, and can lead to mild to severe complications. Food poisoning is another concern with Staphylococcus aureus, when toxins produced by the bacteria contaminate foods and cause illness, according to MedlinePlus. Symptoms of Staphylococcus aureus food poisoning include abdominal cramps, nausea, fever, loss of appetite and diarrhea.
Group A Streptococcus Bacteria
Group A Streptococcus bacterium is commonly found on the skin and throat. The bacterium causes strep throat, and spreads through direct contact with wounds or mucus. Minor illnesses and skin infections are the most common problems associated with Group A Streptococcus bacteria. Serious problems may result if the bacteria travel to the bloodstream or lungs, causing invasive infections. Higher risk for invasive infections occur in individuals with weakened immune systems and the elderly. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that there are between 9,000 to 11,500 cases of invasive Group A Streptococcus infections in the United States each year, and that 1,000 to 1,800 of those cases cause death.
Streptococcus bacteria have a Group B version as well that is often found in women's rectums and vaginas. The bacteria occur naturally in the body, and one in four women carries them, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Group B Streptococcus bacteria can pass from mother to child in pregnancy and lead to serious infections in newborns.
Member Comments