Question

(i) AIDS is a viral disease that spreads by sexual contact. Is there any other way in which this disease can spread?
(ii) Can you name two diseases which spread by sexual contact but are caused by bacteria instead of virus?
(iii) Do microorganisms, responsible for causing these diseases, spread by physical contact such as hug or handshake ?

Answer 1

i) Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS):

1. AIDS is a viral disease caused by HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus).
2. It can be spread through blood transfusion from an infected person or through the use of common needles and syringes.
3. AIDS is a chronic, possibly life-threatening condition that affects the human immune system.
4. Symptoms of Aids are: Fever, headache, rash and weight loss.

ii)

1. Syphilis and gonorrhea, both are sexually transmitted diseases caused by bacteria.
2. Syphilis is caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum and gonorrhea is caused by the bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

iii) Yes, microorganisms are responsible for causing communicable diseases spread by physical contacts such as a hug or handshake.