• Many microbes, or microscopically small organisms, are pathogens.
• Bacteria and viruses are common pathogens.
• Skin and mucous membranes prevent pathogens from entering our bodies.
• White blood cells destroy pathogens that have entered the body.
• Vaccinations can protect against some diseases caused by bacteria and viruses.
• Malaria is an example of a disease caused by a protozoan.
• Keywords: microbial, parasite, skin, mucous membrane, white blood cell, inflammatory reaction, vaccination, virus, bacterium.