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31 (5 marks) (a) Outline ONE adaptation of a specific pathogen that facilitates its entry into a host - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 31 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 31
31 (5 marks) (a) Outline ONE adaptation of a specific pathogen that facilitates its entry into a host. (b) Explain how the mode of transmission of pathogens influe... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:31 (5 marks) (a) Outline ONE adaptation of a specific pathogen that facilitates its entry into a host - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 31 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline ONE adaptation of a specific pathogen that facilitates its entry into a host.
Answer
The bacterium Helicobacter pylori causes stomach ulcers in humans. It is equipped with a flagellum which aids in its movement, enabling it to penetrate the mucus lining/barrier of the stomach wall effectively.
Step 2
Explain how the mode of transmission of pathogens influences the spread of diseases.
Answer
Pathogens spread through different modes, significantly influencing disease prevalence. For instance, airborne transmission via droplets allows rapid spread in crowded areas, such as during an influenza outbreak. In contrast, vector-borne transmission, like that from mosquitoes carrying malaria, depends on the presence of the vector, potentially slowing spread if the vector is scarce. Thus, the nature of transmission determines not only how quickly diseases can spread but also the effectiveness of measures such as vaccination and vector control.