Infection & germs

You have millions of specialised cells that work together to protect you from harmful germs (microbes) - these are your immune system cells. But sometimes harmful microbes hijack or destroy your cells, making you sick.

What causes infection?

Viruses and bacteria can rapidly multiply inside your body and cause widespread damage.

Your body's defences

Your body has immune system cells that protect you against infection.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) bacteria destroy lung cells and can kill the infected person.

Influenza

People survive the flu everyday but a new type of influenza virus could kill millions of people.

Food poisoning

The immune cells in your gut can protect you from the harmful bacteria that you sometimes eat.