Describe 5 harmful effects of bacteria in humans

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Here are five harmful effects of bacteria in humans (with examples):

Infectious diseases: Cause illnesses like tuberculosis (Mycobacterium tuberculosis), pneumonia (Streptococcus pneumoniae), meningitis (Neisseria meningitidis), and gonorrhea (N. gonorrhoeae).
Foodborne illness (food poisoning): Bacteria such as Salmonella, Campylobacter, E. coli O157:H7, and Staphylococcus aureus toxins trigger vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and sometimes kidney failure.
Toxin-mediated diseases: Bacterial toxins cause severe damage—e.g., tetanus (Clostridium tetani neurotoxin), botulism (C. botulinum), and diphtheria (Corynebacterium diphtheriae).
Chronic conditions linked to infection: H. pylori can lead to peptic ulcers and raises stomach cancer risk; periodontal bacteria contribute to gum disease and are associated with cardiovascular complications.
Sepsis and antibiotic resistance: Invasive infections may progress to sepsis (life-threatening organ dysfunction). Rising antimicrobial resistance (e.g., MRSA) makes common infections harder and costlier to treat.

Prevention basics: hand hygiene, safe food handling, clean water, vaccines (where available), and using antibiotics only when prescribed.

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