Questions: Can the microorganism multiply within phagocytes? a. yes b. no

The answer is (a) yes: the microorganism can multiply within phagocytes.

Explanation:

• Some microorganisms, particularly certain bacteria and viruses, have the ability to survive and multiply within phagocytes, which are cells that typically engulf and destroy pathogens. This ability allows them to evade the host's immune response and can lead to more severe infections.
• In the context of the scenario described, where individuals experienced respiratory symptoms and pneumonia, it is possible that the microorganism responsible for the illness is one that can multiply within phagocytes. Examples of such microorganisms include Legionella pneumophila, which causes Legionnaires' disease, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which causes tuberculosis. Both of these can survive and replicate within phagocytes.

Therefore, based on the information provided and the nature of the symptoms, it is reasonable to conclude that the microorganism can multiply within phagocytes.