Is it possible to infect an animal with a pathogen and for him not to get illed?

Question

I'm trying to figure out if the answer will invalidate Koch's postulates.

Answer 1

I don't know anything about Koch's postulates, but I do know that animals have diseases that don't affect humans and humans get diseases that don't affect animals. A big example is AIDS and Monkeys. I read that the HIVirus lives in green monkeys in Africa, but it doesn't make them sick.

Answer 2

Actually vaccination is an introduction of a weakened pathogen in order for the body to create antibodies. Thus a subsequent infection with a more virulent pathogen will be successfully fought off by the built up immunity.

Answer 3

Carrier is a term describing an organism infected with a pathogen but don't get sick. Ever heard the term: Typhoid Mary?? They are a host for a pathogen but don't display clinical signs or the illness is much less than normal.

Also, YOU are infected with many pathogens and don't get sick. We have all kinds of intestinal bacteria in our guts. Some of them are even helpful-symbiosis. Also, you are continually attacked and infected by pathogens. But, many times your immune system nips it in the bud. You never even knew you were exposed. You've built up immunities to pathogens. Even though you are exposed your immune system again comes to the rescue. Don't forget vaccines that allow you to laugh at pathogens.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Koch's_postulates

Answer 4

yes, there may be genetic factors that will cause the particular animal to be immune to the pathogen and yet remain a carrier.
or there may be various stages in the pathogen's life cycle to allow it to spread easily and not affect the initial host.
God bless,
gabe

Answer 5

I guess so if they are already immune to that pathogen