Micro-organisms can play a beneficial role in human health.
An antibiotic is a chemical produced by bacteria and fungi. Antibiotics attack other bacteria and fungi in their environment, which makes them useful in fighting infections caused by these micro-organisms, e.g. amoxicillin is used to treat bacterial infections, such as chest infections (including pneumonia) and dental abscesses.
Antibiotics have no effect on diseases caused by a virus. The incorrect use of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, which makes it more difficult to treat diseases caused by bacteria and fungi.
? TEST TUBE
18. Copy and complete the following table: Name of disease
Pneumonia
Common cold Food poisoning Influenza
Athlete’s foot Strep throat COVID-19
Bacteria Virus
Bacteria Virus Fungi
Bacteria Virus
19. As well as producing many useful products for the medical industry, micro-organisms are used in other industries. Research an example of how micro-organisms are used in one of the following industries: • Dairy products • Alcoholic beverages • Cosmetics
• Farming • Water treatment
Caused by Can it be treated with an antibiotic?
: Fig. 10.19 Antibiotics
: Fig. 10.20 Yeast is a fungus that is used in the baking industry 104 Elements of Science