Tiny Invisible Creatures
Germs are tiny, tiny living things that are so small you cannot see them without a microscope (a special magnifying tool scientists use). Even though you cannot see them, germs are EVERYWHERE — on your hands, on doorknobs, on desks, in the air, and even in your mouth!
There are four main types of germs:
- Bacteria: Tiny one-celled organisms. Some bacteria are helpful (they help you digest food!), but some can make you sick.
- Viruses: Even tinier than bacteria. Viruses cause colds, flu, and other illnesses.
- Fungi: Things like mold and yeast. Some cause skin infections like athlete's foot.
- Parasites: Tiny creatures that live on or inside other living things.
Not all germs are bad! Your body has trillions of helpful bacteria that digest food, make vitamins, and even fight bad germs. But the bad germs — the ones that make you sick — are the ones we want to avoid.