Infectious diseases are caused by microorganisms that impair health. Vaccines can prevent infections without causing clinical illness. Skin and mucous membranes are main barriers to infection. Humans are constantly exposed to infectious organisms in environment
Edward Jenner created first smallpox vaccine, saving 20% of population. Charles Drew established America's first large-scale blood bank. Elizabeth Blackwell became first woman to receive medical degree in US. Daniel Williams performed first successful heart surgery in US
Vibrio is a Gram-negative bacteria with curved-rod shape. Highly salt tolerant and found in various salt water environments. All members are motile with polar or lateral flagella. Contains two chromosomes, unusual for bacteria
Founded in 2005 through merger of Yamanouchi and Fujisawa Pharmaceuticals. Headquartered in Tokyo with research centers in Tsukuba and Osaka. Employs approximately 17,000 people worldwide
Naegleria fowleri is a free-living amoeba found in warm freshwater environments. Named after Australian pathologist Malcolm Fowler, first documented in 1965. Can exist in cyst, trophozoite (ameboid) and flagellate stages. Thrives at temperatures up to 46°C (115°F)
Viruses are infectious agents that replicate only inside living cells. More than 11,000 virus species have been described in detail. Viruses infect all life forms, including bacteria and archaea. Viruses are extremely numerous and found in every ecosystem