Pathogens are tiny living things that cause diseases. They are so small that you can only see them with a microscope.

Another name for them is germs. These germs can enter our bodies and make us sick.

1. Bacteria – These are tiny living things that grow fast and can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, and tuberculosis.


2. Viruses – These are even smaller than bacteria. They live inside our body’s cells and can cause sicknesses like HIV/AIDS, flu, and measles.


3. Fungi – These are tiny plant-like germs that love to grow in damp places. They can cause skin problems like ringworm and athlete’s foot.


4. Protozoa – These are tiny animal-like germs found in dirty food or water. They can cause malaria and stomach problems like dysentery.


5. Worms – Some worms live inside the body and steal our food. They cause diseases like tapeworm and roundworm infections.

1. Measles – A viral infection that causes fever, cough, red eyes, and skin rash; spreads through the air.


2. Malaria – Caused by a protozoan from mosquito bites; leads to fever, chills, and weakness.


3. Pneumonia – Infection of the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi; makes breathing difficult.


4. Typhoid – A bacterial disease from dirty food or water; causes fever, weakness, and stomach pain.


5. Cholera – Caused by bacteria in contaminated water; leads to watery diarrhea and dehydration.


6. HIV/AIDS – A viral disease that weakens the immune system; spreads through blood or body fluids.


7. Tuberculosis (TB) – A bacterial infection of the lungs; causes coughing, chest pain, and fever.


8. Ringworm – A fungal skin infection that causes itchy, round rashes; spreads through contact.


9. Dysentery – A protozoan or bacterial infection of the intestine; causes diarrhea with blood.


10. Polio – A viral disease that can cause paralysis; mostly affects children and spreads through dirty hands or water.


11. Tapeworm – Caused by worms living in the intestines; leads to stomach pain and poor growth.


12. Hepatitis B – A viral infection of the liver; spreads through blood and body fluids.


13. Athlete’s Foot – A fungal infection between the toes; causes itching and cracked skin.


14. Schistosomiasis – A worm infection from dirty water; causes blood in urine or stool.


15. Whooping Cough – A bacterial disease that causes severe coughing fits; spreads through droplets.

1. Through the air – like when someone with a cold coughs or sneezes near you.


2. Through dirty water or food – if you eat or drink something contaminated.


3. By touching – things like dirty hands, door handles, or shared items.


4. Through animal or insect bites – like mosquitoes that cause malaria.


5. From one person to another – by hugging, shaking hands, or using the same towel.

1. The skin blocks germs from getting in.


2. Tears, saliva, and mucus help wash away germs.


3. White blood cells inside our body fight and destroy the germs.


4. The body can also make antibodies, which are like special soldiers that attack specific germs.

1. Keep yourself clean – Bathe daily, brush your teeth, and wash your hands often (especially before eating or after using the toilet).


2. Keep your surroundings clean – Throw away waste properly, avoid dirty water around your house, and make sure drains are not blocked.


3. Eat and drink safely – Boil your water if it’s not clean. Wash fruits and vegetables well. Always cover your food.


4. Use mosquito nets and insect sprays – to avoid bites from mosquitoes that spread malaria.


5. Take your vaccines – Vaccines help your body learn how to fight serious diseases before you even get them.


6. Stay away from people who are sick – and if you’re sick, rest and avoid passing it to others.

• To protect your health and that of your family.


• To stop the spread of deadly diseases.


• To help everyone live longer and healthier lives.


• To avoid outbreaks and sickness in your school or community.