Infectious Diseases

The flu (influenza), is caused by influenza viruses. There are three types of influenza viruses, designated Type A, B, and C. Types A and B are common types of seasonal flu in humans, while C is less frequent in humans. Influenza A is the type of flu virus which gives rise to all worldwide pandemics seen every once in a while, such as 'Spanish flu' after the First World War and 'Swine flu' H1N1/09 which we've seen recently.

Some scientists technically do not characterize viruses as living micro-organisms because they are actually sub-microscopic and do not carry out the full range of processes which define a living organism. The study of viruses (virology) is commonly categorized under microbiology (the study of micro-organisms) which can be confusing. They are completely dependent on a living host in order to replicate since they are not technically "alive" and do not have the materials and processes to do their own reproduction.

No. Stay out of the sun, stay in bed. You can pass the measles to others and your skin is sensitive when you have them. A woman who is pregnant can have damage to her fetus if she gets the measles.

1. Contaminated water: Water sources contaminated with fecal matter can harbor pathogenic bacteria like E. coli.
2. Improper food handling: Poor food hygiene practices can lead to the growth and spread of bacteria like Salmonella and Listeria.
3. Airborne transmission: Some bacteria, such as Streptococcus and Staphylococcus, can be transmitted through the air in droplets from coughs or sneezes.
4. Contact with contaminated surfaces: Bacteria like Clostridium difficile can survive on surfaces and spread through contact.
5. Vector-borne transmission: Some bacteria, like those causing Lyme disease, can be transmitted through insect vectors like ticks.

Anthrax is a disease caused by the microorganism called Bacillus anthracis. This bacteria produces a poisonous toxin (thus anthrax poisoning is caused by a toxin produced by the bacteria during the course of infection). Disease: Anthrax

Cause: B. anthracis

Examples of opportunistic infections in HIV positive individuals include Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, cytomegalovirus infection, cryptococcal meningitis, and Mycobacterium avium complex infection. These infections take advantage of the weakened immune system and can cause serious illness if not treated promptly. Early detection and proper treatment are crucial for managing opportunistic infections in HIV positive individuals.

White blood cells fight swine flu by recognizing the virus as foreign and launching an immune response. Some white blood cells produce antibodies that bind to the virus and target it for destruction, while others directly attack and kill infected cells. This coordinated effort helps to eliminate the virus from the body and prevent further infection.

There is no patron saint agains Lyme Disease.

The medical term for poison produced by an organism is "toxin."

It is called a vaccine. Vaccines trigger an immune response in the body without causing the disease, preparing the immune system to recognize and fight off the pathogen if exposed in the future.

Microbes are useful for producing food (like cheese and yogurt), breaking down organic matter in nature, and assisting in digestion in our bodies. However, they can also be harmful by causing diseases, food spoilage, and contamination of surfaces.

The sporozoan Plasmodium causes malaria, a potentially life-threatening disease transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. It infects red blood cells and can lead to symptoms such as fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms. If left untreated, malaria can be fatal.

1. Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs.
2. The flu virus can mutate rapidly, leading to seasonal epidemics and occasional pandemics that can spread globally.
3. Symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Vaccination is the best way to prevent seasonal influenza.

Anthrax is a bacterial infection caused by Bacillus anthracis that primarily affects animals. It can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or their products. Tuberculosis, on the other hand, is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis that primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. It is primarily transmitted through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

The Lyme disease booster vaccination is typically a repeat dose of the initial vaccine to help maintain immunity against Lyme disease. It may contain inactivated or components of the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria, the causative agent of Lyme disease, to stimulate the immune system to produce protective antibodies. The booster helps to ensure that the body continues to recognize and fight off any future exposure to the bacteria.

Pasteurellosis is typically contracted through direct contact with infected animals, especially rabbits and rodents. The bacteria Pasteurella multocida can be found in the saliva, nasal secretions, and respiratory discharges of these animals, and can enter the body through bites, scratches, or inhalation of contaminated droplets. Proper hygiene practices and avoiding contact with sick animals can help prevent infection.

Without prompt treatment, rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. However, if immediate medical attention and post-exposure prophylaxis are given after exposure to the virus, the prognosis is very good.

Measles is an example of a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects children. It is characterized by symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, and a distinctive rash. Measles can lead to serious complications, especially in unvaccinated individuals.

The Spanish influenza was a severe worldwide flu pandemic that occurred in 1918, causing millions of deaths. While it had devastating consequences, it is more commonly referred to as a pandemic rather than a plague, as plagues are typically associated with infectious diseases that spread rapidly and cause widespread illness and death over an extended period of time.

Once a person has recovered from hantavirus infection, they are believed to be immune to that specific strain of the virus. However, it is possible for a person to be infected with a different strain of hantavirus in the future. Regular preventive measures should be taken to avoid exposure to the virus.

Influenza A is generally considered the worst type due to its ability to cause more severe illness, pandemics, and higher transmission rates compared to Influenza B and C. Influenza A viruses have more genetic variability, allowing them to rapidly evolve and potentially develop resistance to antiviral medications.

Pus is a sign that your body is fighting off an infection. It typically contains dead white blood cells, bacteria, and tissue debris. While pus itself isn't harmful, the underlying infection causing it may require medical attention.

Pathogenic staphylococci can cause infections in humans, while non-pathogenic strains do not typically cause harm. Pathogenic strains often produce toxins and enzymes that contribute to disease, while non-pathogenic strains lack these virulence factors. Additionally, pathogenic strains are more likely to be antibiotic resistant compared to non-pathogenic strains.

If a family member has swine influenza, it's important to encourage them to rest, stay hydrated, and seek medical advice from a healthcare professional. They should also practice good respiratory hygiene by covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of the virus to others. It's advisable to follow any treatment recommendations provided by the healthcare provider.

Infectious diseases are those diseases which are caused by infectious agents (which include microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, protozoa and virus, as well as some multicellular animals such as worms) and hence they are the ones which can spread from one person to another. Non-infectious diseases are those diseases that are not caused by infectious agents and do not spread from one person to another.