The Streptococcus genus of bacteria are classified as Gram-positive bacteria. These are spheroidal bacteria which belong to the Streptococcaceae family. They can largely impact humans as they have a significance in medical and industrial use. Some are disease-causing too. Some examples of Streptococcus bacteria that are disease-causing are given below:
- S. pneumoniae, which causes pneumonia, sinusitis, and meningitis in humans
- S. pyogenes, which causes scarlet fever, tonsillitis, rheumatic fever, strep throat, etc.
- S. agalactiae are known to cause invasive infections among pregnant women and newborns too.
Not all Streptococcus genus of bacteria are harmful. Some are co-existing in the environment and are ecologically important too. They are normal flora for most humans and animals, and are also used in clinical and dairy products. Some examples of Streptococcus bacteria which are human-friendly are given below:
- S. thermophilus produces lactic acid and are used in probiotic supplements
- Various species of Streptococcus secretes streptokinase, which is clinically used as a thrombolytic agent
- S. lactis and S. cremoris are used in the production of dairy products such as butter, buttermilk and cheese.
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