What is a pathogen?

A pathogen is defined as a disease-causing organism. This category includes various microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that can invade a host and lead to illness. Understanding what constitutes a pathogen is crucial for effective public health responses, as well as for law enforcement officers who may encounter situations involving biological threats.

The other options refer to different types of substances or agents that do not fit the definition of pathogens. For example, a non-infectious agent does not have the capability to cause disease, and chemical substances can include a wide range of materials that may or may not impact health in the context of hazardous materials. Meanwhile, a type of oxidizer refers specifically to substances that can promote combustion or enhance the burning of other materials, which is unrelated to the biological aspect of pathogens. This distinction is vital when considering responses to potential threats involving biological agents.