Infectious disease is an umbrella term used for various disorders that are triggered by organisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Most of these organisms are normally present inside our bodies and are harmless under normal circumstances. However, under certain conditions, this can get activated resulting in disease. In the majority of the cases, these diseases are contagious, which means that they can be passed from one person to another. Some can even be transmitted via animals, insects, contaminated belongings or infected food. Some infectious diseases, such as measles and chickenpox can be easily prevented by timely vaccination. Practising proper sanitization can also help to reduce the risks of infectious diseases significantly. Infectious diseases can affect people of all age groups, be it small children, or adults.
Common types of infection
- Bacterial infections, which include infections like strep throat, urinary tract infections and tuberculosis.
- Viral infections, which may range from the common cold to AIDS
- Fungal infections, which include diseases like athlete's foot and ringworms
- Parasitic infections, which include malaria.
Symptoms you need to look out for
The symptoms usually vary depending upon the underlying cause of the infection. Some of the common symptoms associated with infectious diseases include:
- Fever
- Fatigue and weakness
- Persistent cough
- Sneezing
- Muscle ache
- Diarrhoea
Spread of infection
Various ways through which the infection can spread from one person to another are as under:
- Direct contact - It is one of the easiest ways of transmission in which a person acquires the infection by coming in direct contact with an infected person or animal. This way the infection can spread from an infected person to a healthy person, from an infected animal to a healthy person or, from an infected mother to the unborn child.
- Indirect contact - Infection can also spread from one person to another via contaminated objects such as a doorknob, handle, electronic items, furniture etc.
- Insect bite - In some cases, small insects such as mosquitoes and fleas can serve as the hosts and carry the infections. If such insects bite you, they can easily transmit the infection.
- Food and water contamination - The food we eat, or the water we drink, can also get contaminated by microorganisms like E. coli. Such infections usually spread like an epidemic and involve a lot of people.
Diagnosis
Infections are usually diagnosed through a simple laboratory test, that includes
- Blood test
- Urine test
- Stool test
- Spinal Tap
- Throat and nasal swab
The collected sample is analysed for any signs of infection.
Treatment
The treatment of infectious disease majorly depends upon the type of infection and the underlying cause.
- Antibiotics are given for bacterial infections
- Antivirals are given for viral infections, except herpes, influenza, AIDS, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C
- Antifungal is recommended for fungal infections. These may be oral or topical
- Antiparasitic drugs are given to treat malaria and other parasitic infections.
Why Eternal Hospital?
At Eternal Hospital, we have a highly qualified and dedicated team of experts who are always committed to providing the latest and most advanced medical care to all our patients. Being a trusted name in healthcare, we act compassionately while ensuring confidentiality to those who need it. We have set high standards in patient-centric premium care along with outstanding patient safety and exceptional maintenance in a timely manner. We adhere to the use of up to the minute innovations to offer state-of-the-art treatments to our patients with unparalleled results.
