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Features of a perfect pathogen

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If you were to create a hypothetical perfect pathogen, identify four features of the pathogen that help to maximize its survival and spread within a host population. For each feature described, provide a named example of a real pathogen that uses a similar feature.

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Solution Summary

This solution describes four attributes that enhance the ability of a pathogen to spread and survive within the population. For each factor, examples are provided of real pathogens that have the appropriate attribute.

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1) It should be able to survive for prolonged periods outside of the body, so it does not rely only on close personal contact for transmission. Poliovirus is an example of a virus that is stable in sewage-contaminated water for prolonged periods, and can infect people who drink this water.

2) Typically the most contagious viruses are ...

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