Several pathogens that are significant in public health utilize sporulation. These include:
Bacillus anthracis: The causative agent of anthrax. Its spores can survive in soil for decades. Clostridium difficile: A major cause of healthcare-associated infections. Its spores are resistant to many disinfectants. Clostridium botulinum: Responsible for botulism, a severe paralytic illness. Its spores can contaminate food products.
