Introduction to Microbiology/Mithra/SNSCAHS

Microbiology is the study of microorganisms, or microbes, which are organisms that are too small to see with the naked eye. Microbes include bacteria, viruses, fungi, algae, protozoa, and slime molds.
Here are some key facts about microbiology:
Microbes are the oldest life form
Microbes are the oldest life form on Earth, with fossil evidence of microbial communities dating back 3.48 billion years.
Microbes are diverse
Microbes are a very large and diverse group of organisms.
Microbes are important
Microbes are the basis for all life on Earth, producing soil for plants and fixing atmospheric gases.
Microbes cause disease
Microbes that cause disease are called pathogens, but human pathogens make up less than 1% of all microbial species.
Microbiology has led to important discoveries
Famous microbiologists have made important discoveries, including Edward Jenner's smallpox vaccine, Alexander Fleming's discovery of penicillin, and Harald zur Hausen's identification of the link between HPV and cervical cancer.
Microbiology can help prevent infection
Microbiology can help people avoid or reduce the risk of infection by teaching how to remove microbes from the body and its environment.