Answer:
A pathogen is an infectious agent that causes illness to the host. These are commonly attributed to be bacteria and viruses.
They can also be simple organisms, such as Naegleria fowleri [the uncommon brain eating ameoba]. Most pathogens are infectious microbes, such as bacteria or viruses, which are capable of causing disease. Other parasites, such as fungi and protozoans, are also considered pathogens. Because not all microbes are harmful, pathogens refer specifically to those that can cause disease or other harm.