Infectious Diseases

Key Notes:

Definition:

• Infectious diseases are illnesses caused by germs, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, that can spread from one person to another.

Types of Germs:

• Bacteria: Tiny organisms that can live in or on the body. Some cause diseases like strep throat or ear infections.
• Viruses: Even smaller than bacteria, viruses cause illnesses like the flu or common cold.
• Fungi: Can cause infections like athlete’s foot or ringworm.
• Parasites: Organisms that live on or inside other organisms, causing diseases like malaria.

How Diseases Spread:

• Direct Contact: Touching someone who is infected or sharing personal items.

• Indirect Contact: Touching surfaces or objects that have germs on them.
• Airborne: Breathing in germs from the air, like when someone sneezes or coughs.
• Insect Bites: Some diseases spread through bites from insects like mosquitoes.

Symptoms:

• Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, rash, and feeling tired or weak.

Prevention:

• Hand Washing: Regularly washing hands with soap and water helps kill germs.

• Vaccines: Getting vaccinated can prevent certain infectious diseases.

• Healthy Habits: Eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep help keep the immune system strong.

Treatment:

• Medicine: Doctors may prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections or other medicines for different types of germs.

• Rest and Hydration: Resting and drinking fluids helps the body fight off illness.

Importance of Hygiene:

• Keeping yourself and your surroundings clean helps prevent the spread of germs.

When to See a Doctor:

• If you have symptoms that are severe or do not go away, it’s important to visit a healthcare provider.