Why should organisms isolated from the environment be considered as potentially pathogenic?
Microbial specimens collected by students for use in science research projects must be considered potential pathogens for several reasons. The primary reason is for the student’s health and safety. There are many organisms that are pathogenic. For example, the organisms that cause anthrax, tetanus or botulism are readily found in soil. Also, E. coli has both pathogenic and nonpathogenic forms. Thus, all organisms isolated from the environment should be considered potentially pathogenic.
Related Questions
- How are the living organisms dependent upon one another and on the non-living parts of their environment?
- the environment, genetically modified organisms, nuclear power, and other issues, how can we change that?
- What organisms usually are grouped according to the extreme environment in which they live?
