Concept explainers
Viral and bacterial respiratory pathogens are spread by means of air. Majorly, respiratory pathogenic organisms are transmitted from one person to the other through respiratory aerosols. An infectious aerosol is generated by sneezing, coughing, breathing, coughing, and by fomite contact or direct contact. The airborne pathogens affect both the upper and lower respiratory tracts.
Explanation of Solution
Gram-positive bacteria cause respiratory diseases more frequently compared to the Gram-negative bacteria. This is because, Gram-positive bacteria are highly resistant to desiccation, as they possess thick, rigid cell walls, which is absent in the Gram-negative bacteria. This characteristic ensures Gram-positive bacteria a better rate of endurance, when dispersed in the airborne droplets. As a result, Gram-positive bacteria cause more frequent respiratory infections than the Gram-negative bacteria.
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Chapter 29 Solutions
Brock Biology of Microorganisms (14th Edition)
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