Infectious Disease

1. Infectious Disease

• Any disease that is caused by an agent that has invaded the body.

2. Pathogen

• Any agent that causes disease.

3. Common Pathogens

• Bacteria – single celled organisms.

• Viruses – genetic material covered in a protein shell.

• Fungi – absorbs nutrients from living and nonliving organisms.

• Protozoa – single celled organisms that are more complex than bacteria.

• Parasites – organisms that get their energy from other living things.

4. Transmission of Disease

• Person-to-person – sneezing, coughing, sharing drinks, contact.

• Food and Water – improperly treated water, and improperly prepared foods.

• Environment – doorknobs, money, and soil.

• Animals – pets, stray animals, and insects.

5. Treatment

• Bacterial infections – antibiotics

• Viral infections – no cure, symptoms are treated, must run its course.

• Fungal infections – OTC antifungal, oral meds in severe cases.

• Protozoan infections – prescription meds.

• Parasitic infections – medicated shampoos (lice), prescription meds.

6. Body’s defenses

• Physical Barriers – Skin– Mucous membranes– Chemicals – sweat, stomach acid, tears

• Inflammatory Response

• Immune System– Antibodies– White blood cells

7. Inflammation (-itis)

• A reaction to injury or infection that is characterized by, pain, redness, and swelling.

8. Precautions

• Wash your hands

• Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet.

• Drink water (8-10 glasses a day)

• Reduce stress levels

• Exercise regularly

• Regular medical checks

• Avoid close contact with sick people.

• Get enough sleep

• Get vaccinated

9. Prevention • Get vaccinated• Keep clean

– Bathing– Washing hands

• Don’t share personal items– Toothbrushes– Hairbrushes– Food and drinks– Makeup (lip gloss, eyeliner)

• Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.• Be on guard outdoors

– Insect repellant– Don’t drink from streams (boil water for 10 min.)– Wild animals

10. Common Viral Infections

• Influenza (flu)

• Cold

• Mumps

• Measles

• Mononucleosis

• Hepatitis

11. Other common infections

• Fungal – athletes foot; ringworm

• Protozoan – malaria, amoebic dysentery

• Parasitic – lice, leeches, ticks, tapeworms, hookworms, and

pinworms.