Final answer:
The basic types of pathogens include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Viruses cause diseases like the common cold, while fungi are responsible for conditions such as athlete's foot.
Step-by-step explanation:
The basic types of pathogens that commonly cause human diseases include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. For example, the common cold is caused by viruses specifically, rhinoviruses, among others. Athlete's foot, on the other hand, is caused by a type of fungi.
Bacteria are one-celled organisms that can cause diseases such as tuberculosis and strep throat, but not all bacteria are harmful. Many bacterial infections can be cured with antibiotics. Viruses are responsible for a wide range of diseases, including the common cold and influenza. Fungi can cause infections like ringworm and athlete's foot. Parasites such as protozoa, helminths, and even larger organisms can lead to diseases like malaria and tapeworm infections.
The immune system is our defense mechanism against these pathogens, helping to prevent infection and illness. Nonetheless, our interaction with the environment inevitably exposes us to these microbial agents.