Washington Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

Which of the following diseases is NOT caused by bacteria?

1. Strep throat

2. Syphilis

3. Influenza

4. Tetanus

The correct answer is: Influenza

Influenza is caused by a virus, not bacteria, which is why it is the correct answer to the question. It is important to understand that viruses and bacteria are two distinct types of pathogens; while bacteria can be associated with various diseases and often respond to antibiotic treatments, viruses function differently and require antivirals or other specific treatments. Strep throat, syphilis, and tetanus are all bacterial infections. Strep throat is caused by Streptococcus bacteria, syphilis is caused by Treponema pallidum (a type of bacteria known as a spirochete), and tetanus results from the bacterium Clostridium tetani. Recognizing the differences between bacterial and viral diseases is essential in healthcare, particularly in developing appropriate treatment plans and explaining the nature of the infections to clients or patients.