Answer :
The best statement that describes where pathogens are found is B. Pathogens are disease-causing agents that can be found in the environment and passed from one individual to another.
Pathogens are microorganisms that are capable of causing diseases. They include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. These microorganisms can be found in various parts of the environment such as in air, water, soil, and are also present on the surfaces we touch regularly.
Bacteria: These are single-celled organisms that can be found almost everywhere. Some bacteria are harmless or even beneficial, but others can cause diseases like strep throat or tuberculosis when they enter the human body.
Viruses: These are smaller than bacteria and can cause diseases ranging from the common cold to more serious diseases like influenza and COVID-19. Viruses need a host to replicate and often spread from person to person through the air or by contact with an infected surface.
Fungi: These can be found in damp environments and can cause infections like athlete's foot or ringworm.
Protozoa: These are single-celled organisms that can cause diseases such as malaria, which is spread through mosquito bites.
Understanding how pathogens spread is important for disease prevention. They can be passed through direct contact, airborne transmission, contaminated food or water, and via insect vectors like mosquitoes.