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 Inflammatory Response Skin Mucous membranes Chemicals – sweat, stomach acid, tears Inflammatory Response Immune System Antibodies White blood cells
7. Inflammation 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 Don’t share personal items Bathing Washing hands Don’t share personal items Toothbrushes Hairbrushes Food and drinks Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing. Be on guard outdoors Insect repellant Don’t drink from streams 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.