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Multiple Choice
Characteristics of a pathogen that promote pathogenicity are called:
A
Pathogen factors.
B
Colonization factors.
C
Infectious agents.
D
Virulence factors.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the term 'pathogenicity': Pathogenicity refers to the ability of a pathogen to cause disease in a host organism.
Identify the role of 'virulence factors': Virulence factors are molecules produced by pathogens that contribute to the pathogenicity by enhancing their ability to infect and damage the host.
Differentiate between the options: 'Pathogen factors' is a broad term that could refer to any characteristic of a pathogen, 'Colonization factors' specifically aid in the establishment of the pathogen in the host, and 'Infectious agents' are the pathogens themselves.
Recognize that 'virulence factors' are specific characteristics that increase the effectiveness of a pathogen in causing disease, making them the correct answer.
Conclude that understanding virulence factors is crucial for developing treatments and preventive measures against infectious diseases.