Virulence

Virulence refers to the severity or harmfulness of a pathogen, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, in causing disease. It describes how effectively a pathogen can invade the host, multiply, and produce symptoms or damage. High virulence means the pathogen can cause more severe illness or higher rates of illness, while low virulence indicates milder effects. Factors influencing virulence include the pathogen’s ability to evade the immune system, produce toxins, and adapt to the host environment. Understanding virulence helps in assessing the danger posed by infectious microorganisms and developing appropriate treatments and preventive measures.