Germs are microorganisms that can be seen only through a microscope. They can be found everywhere, including in the air, soil, and water, as well as on our skin and in our bodies. While many germs live in and on our bodies without causing harm, some can make us sick and cause infectious diseases. The main types of germs are bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

Some key features of germs include:

• Bacteria: These are one-celled creatures that get nutrients from their environments in order to live. Some bacteria are helpful, such as those that live in our intestines and help us digest food, while others can cause infections like strep throat or pneumonia.

• Viruses: These are tiny particles that can only reproduce inside a living cell. They can cause a wide range of illnesses, from the common cold to more serious diseases like HIV and COVID-19.

• Fungi: These are organisms like mushrooms and yeasts that can cause infections in humans, especially in people with weakened immune systems.

• Parasites: These are organisms that live on or inside another organism (the host) and benefit at the hosts expense. Examples of parasites that can cause human disease include malaria and tapeworms.

Germs can spread in a variety of ways, including through close contact with an infected person, breathing in air after a person with the germs coughs or sneezes, touching objects and surfaces that have germs on them, and eating contaminated food or water. To protect yourself and others from germs, its important to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.