MICROORGANISMS-POST 5

GOOD MORNING BOYS AND WELCOME TO ANOTHER INTERESTING DAY

Yesterday we were introduced to some of the vectors(carriers of specific microorganisms) like the mosquito, fly and the rat. In the table that was given, we also saw how are various other diseases spread.

We also know that prevention is better than cure.

washing our hands clean
covering our mouth while sneezing or coughing
preventing water from lying stagnant
preventing open drains and garbage dumps
covering foodstuff
keeping a distance from an infected person etc
helps to stop the spread of a disease.

Animals also suffer from diseases. These infectious diseases are caused by bacteria and viruses.

 If you have a pet, you must have noticed that if it is not keeping well :

it stops eating
it becomes inactive
its eyes water and there is excessive secretion of saliva(spit)

                                                           



                                                                                  



                    
In cows the amount of milk produced reduces. Animals suffering from foot and mouth disease show red granules around the foot and mouth. these animals also show excessive salivation.
Poultry lay fewer eggs.

Diseases in animals can be prevented by:

vaccinating the animal
regular check ups by the vet
proper diet
adequate rest
maintaining clean surroundings

Many microorganisms cause diseases in plants. These diseases are transmitted through seeds, air and soil

Even in Potatoes you must have noticed that when you cut it, it is black and spoilt from within. Farmers suffer great loses because of this. It causes various diseases like citrus canker in oranges, Smut in wheat, Yellow vein mosaic in Bhindi etc.

                                              

                  



These plant diseases reduce the crop yield. These can be controlled by

treating the seeds before sowing.
sowing disease resistant varieties of seeds
spraying pesticides at the right time and in the right amount.




So now you know

Microorganisms cause diseases in animals and plants.
Diseases can be prevented by adopting suitable methods at the right time,
Appropriate steps need to be taken on the onset of a disease.

REFLECT

• Effects of excessive use of pesticides
• Steps that need to be taken in order to help a farmer
• Causes for increase in suicides amongst the farmers.

SEE YOU TOMORROW. STAY SAFE. STAY HEALTHY.