GCSE Biology (Edexcel)

Topic Summaries

Pathogens and non-specific immunity

Viral diseases

Disease Symptoms Transmission Details
Measles Fever and red skin rash Airborne: inhalation of droplets from sneezes and coughs
  • Complications can be fatal
  • Most young children are vaccinated against measles
HIV Initially causes flu-like symptoms Transfer of infected fluids: transfer of bodily fluids (e.g. sex, blood transfusions, drug users sharing needles)
  • Unless controlled with antiretroviral drugs, the virus attacks immune cells
  • Damage to the immune system causes AIDS
Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) Distinctive ‘mosaic’ discolouration on leaves Direct contact: rubbing of leaf against an infected leaf
  • Affecting many species of plants including tomatoes
  • Affects growth of plant due to lack of photosynthesis

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