Bacteria and viruses cause disease in different ways. Bacteria can directly damage cells and tissues for food or release toxins that interfere with the host's normal functions. Viruses disrupt the body's equilibrium by attacking and destroying cells, causing symptoms. There are methods to control bacteria like sterilization and disinfectants, while viral infections damage cells and disrupt the body's normal functioning.

1. Diseases caused by Bacteria and Viruses19-3

2. Bacteria cause diseaseBacteria produce disease in one of two general ways. Some bacteria damage the cells and tissue of the infected organism directly by breaking down the cells for food. Other bacteria release toxins that travel throughout the body interfering with the normal activity of the host.

3. Control of bacterial growthThere are various methods used to control bacterial growth, including sterilization, disinfectants and food processing.

4. Viruses cause DiseaseLike bacteria, viruses produce disease by disrupting the body’s normal equilibrium. In many viral infections, viruses attack and destroy certain cells in the body, causing the symptoms of the disease.