Articles
Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection
Content
Infectious agents: From bacteria to worms
Understanding infection vs. disease
Warding off germs and infection
When to seek medical care
Content
Germs live everywhere. You can find germs (microbes) in the air; on food, plants and animals; in soil and water — and on just about every other surface, including your body.
Most germs won't harm you. Your immune system protects you against infectious agents. However, some germs are difficult enemies because they're constantly mutating to breach your immune system's defenses. Knowing how germs work can increase your chances of avoiding infection.