What is the term for microorganisms that can cause disease?

The term for microorganisms that can cause disease is "pathogens." Pathogens encompass a variety of organisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that have the capability to invade the host's body and provoke an immune response, ultimately leading to illness. Understanding the nature of pathogens is crucial in infection control and prevention, as they are the primary targets when implementing strategies to reduce the risk of disease transmission.

Other terms such as antigens, vectors, and carriers refer to different concepts. Antigens are substances that induce an immune response but do not necessarily cause disease themselves. Vectors are organisms, often insects, that transfer pathogens between hosts (for example, mosquitoes transmitting malaria), while carriers are individuals who harbor pathogens without exhibiting signs of disease and may still spread the infection to others. Recognizing these definitions helps clarify the specific role of pathogens in infectious diseases.