Select the related word from the given alternatives. Polio : Virus :: Anthrax : ?

Appeared in: Haryana CHO -2023

Explanation

The question presents an analogy where the relationship is Disease : Causative Agent.
Polio is a well-known disease caused by the poliovirus.
Following this pattern, the question asks for the causative agent of the disease Anthrax.
Anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis.

Option A: Fungi are a distinct kingdom of organisms. They cause mycoses (fungal infections) such as athlete's foot or thrush, not anthrax.
Option C: This is the causative agent for the first part of the analogy (Polio), but not for Anthrax. It tests whether the candidate simply repeats the category.
Option D: An insect can be a vector (a carrier that transmits a pathogen), but it is not the pathogen itself. For example, mosquitoes are vectors for malaria.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Analogy of diseases and their causative agents as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Identifying the correct causative agent is the cornerstone of antimicrobial therapy. Bacterial infections like anthrax are treated with antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin), whereas viral infections require antiviral drugs and do not respond to antibiotics.
Anthrax is a zoonotic disease, meaning it spreads from animals to people. Nurses should be aware of occupational risks for farmers, veterinarians, and workers handling animal hides or wool.
Due to its high mortality rate (especially inhalational anthrax) and stable spore form, B. anthracis is considered a potential agent for bioterrorism. Healthcare systems have protocols for managing suspected cases.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the relationship between the first pair of words: 'Polio' and 'Virus'.
Recognize that Polio is a disease, and a Virus is its causative agent. The relationship is Disease : Causative Agent.
Apply this same relationship to the second word, 'Anthrax'. You need to find the causative agent of Anthrax.
Recall or deduce the pathogen that causes Anthrax.
Evaluate the given options (Fungus, Bacteria, Virus, Insect) and select the one that correctly identifies the causative agent of Anthrax.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Pathology- ROBBINS & COTRAN PATHOLOGIC BASIS OF DISEASE 10TH Ed p. 369-371

E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 286-288

Practise the full Haryana CHO -2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.