The correct answer is Option (1) – Viruses
- The causative microorganism responsible for the common cold and influenza (flu) is viruses. Viruses, specifically rhinoviruses and influenza viruses, are responsible for causing the common cold and influenza. These viruses infect the respiratory system, leading to symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, congestion, and fever.
- Unlike bacteria, viruses are not considered living organisms and require a host cell to replicate and cause infection.
- Protozoa: Protozoa are single-celled eukaryotic microorganisms. They are often associated with diseases like malaria, caused by Plasmodium, but they are not responsible for the common cold or influenza.
- Fungi:Fungi are a separate kingdom of eukaryotic organisms.They are commonly associated with infections like fungal skin infections (ringworm), but they are not the primary causative agents of the common cold or influenza.
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