Microbial Virulence

    Compare and contrast two pathogens and what they have evolved with as adaptations to allow them to both infect and colonize their respective hosts. Do these particular virulence traits evince patterns similar to other pathogens? Identify particular traits that allow them to a) adhere to their hosts, b) invade/penetrate the host’s barriers of defense, c) persist and colonize the host tissues, are there certain traits that allow the pathogen to evade/inhibit/destroy host defense tactics and lastly, d) allow an exit from the host to promote further spread of the pathogen. In your analysis, include a brief discussion of how these affect the host and how they contribute to the characteristic signs/symptoms of disease.