pathogenicity
/ˌpæθədʒəˈnɪsəti/
noun
- The ability of a germ, virus, or other microorganism to cause disease in a living thing.
- Mutations can increase or decrease a microbe's pathogenicity, making it more or less dangerous.
- Scientists study the pathogenicity of new viruses to prepare for potential outbreaks.
- The pathogenicity of the bacteria was confirmed when lab mice became ill after exposure.
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