pathogen
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pathogen
A microorganism (such as a bacterium, virus, or fungus) or a parasite that can cause a disease.
Das Immunsystem des Körpers kämpft ständig gegen Krankheitserreger.
The body's immune system constantly fights against pathogens.
The word is made up of three parts: 'Krankheit' (illness/disease) + linking s + 'Erreger' (causative agent). An 'Erreger' is something that triggers or causes a reaction. A Krankheitserreger is therefore literally a 'causer of diseases'.
Viren und Bakterien sind bekannte Krankheitserreger.
Viruses and bacteria are well-known pathogens.
'Krankheitserreger' (pathogen) is a scientific and medical technical term. It is used mainly in formal, technical, or educated-language contexts.
Der Arzt erklärte, wie sich der Krankheitserreger im Körper ausbreitet.
The doctor explained how the pathogen spreads through the body.
Common verbs used with 'Krankheitserreger' (pathogen) are 'übertragen' (to transmit), 'bekämpfen' (to fight), 'nachweisen' (to detect/prove), and 'sich schützen vor' (to protect oneself from).
Händewaschen hilft, sich vor Krankheitserregern zu schützen.
Washing your hands helps protect you from pathogens.
virus
'das Virus' and 'der Krankheitserreger' can both refer to something that makes you sick. However, 'Krankheitserreger' is the more general term. It can include viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites. 'Virus' is only one specific type of pathogen. The words can be confused when talking about infections. If the exact type is known, you say 'Virus'. If you mean generally that something causes a disease, 'Krankheitserreger' fits better.
Im Labor sucht die Ärztin nach dem Krankheitserreger.
In the lab, the doctor is looking for the pathogen.
Das Virus hat sich in der Schule schnell verbreitet.
The virus spread quickly at the school.