Bacteria and Viruses

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What is a vaccine?

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A vaccine is a substance that trains the body’s immune system to recognize and fight off specific pathogens, such as viruses or bacteria, before they can cause illness.

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How quickly can bacteria reproduce?

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Bacteria can reproduce as quickly as every 20 minutes under optimal conditions.

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What are some beneficial roles of bacteria?

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Bacteria can produce food like yogurt, help digest food in our stomachs, and even produce fuel for cars.

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What type of medicine is used to kill bacteria?

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Antibiotics are medicines that kill bacteria or inhibit their growth.

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What is a virologist?

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A virologist is a scientist who studies viruses, including their structure, classification, and ways to combat viral infections.

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What is the difference between bacteria and viruses?

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Bacteria are single-celled organisms that can live independently, while viruses are much smaller and require a host cell to replicate.

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What is antibiotic resistance?

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Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve and become resistant to the effects of antibiotics, making infections harder to treat.

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How do vaccines work?

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Vaccines work by introducing a harmless part of a pathogen (like a protein) to stimulate the immune system to recognize and remember it.

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Can bacteria be harmful?

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Yes, some bacteria can cause diseases, such as strep throat or tuberculosis, but many are beneficial.

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What is the role of the immune system?

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The immune system protects the body from infections and diseases by identifying and destroying pathogens.