What is living pathogen?

A living pathogen is a microorganism that can cause disease in a host organism. This includes various forms of life such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Unlike non-living pathogens, such as prions or toxins, living pathogens possess the ability to reproduce and evolve, thereby increasing their capacity to infect and spread. Their interaction with the host's immune system can lead to illness, and they may be transmitted through various routes, including direct contact, airborne particles, or contaminated surfaces.