Germs are microscopic organisms that can cause disease. They are found everywhere, including in the air, soil, water, and on surfaces and objects that we touch. There are different types of germs, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Some germs are good for our bodies, such as the ones that help keep our digestive system in working order and prevent harmful bacteria from moving in. However, some germs can make us sick and cause infections and diseases.
Germs can spread in different ways, including through the air in sneezes, coughs, or breaths, through touching a person who has the germs or making other close contact with them, through touching objects and surfaces that have germs on them, and through contaminated food, water, soil, or plants. Doctors can figure out what germs are causing an infection by looking at samples of blood, pee, and other fluids under a microscope or sending these samples to a laboratory for more tests.
To protect ourselves and others from germs, we can take steps such as washing our hands well and often, covering our mouth and nose when we cough or sneeze, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and staying home when we are sick. It is important to note that not all germs are bad, and some are even necessary for our health.
