Infectious Diseases

Staphylococcus aureusGeneral bacteria

Staphylococcus aureus How its transmitted: S. aureus is transmitted by direct contact with infected wound pus, skin to skin contact and contact with other objects that have been touched by an infected person. Process of incubation: -within a few hours of infection for food poisoning it usually takes between 1-6 hours for contamination Symptoms: Staphylococcal disease of the skin usually results in a localized collection of pus, known as an abscess or boil depending upon the exact type that is present. The affected area may be red, swollen, and painful. Drainage or pus is common. When Staph is in the blood, it can cause high fevers, chills, and low blood pressure. How it causes infections: S.aureus is responsible for food poisoning, it can produce a toxin that is the causative agents of gastroenteritis. Can affects others tissues once the barrier has been broken How body attempts to fight it: if your healthy your bodies immune system will fight the infection & your body will naturally heal over time, for minor infections If your immune system is weakened, the s. aureus can override the immune system & develop into more serious wound infections, which can then only be treated by antibiotics

influenza How its Transmitted: Influenza viruses can be easily spread by an infected person coughing or sneezing as well as touching common surfaces. Process of incubation: from the time the person comes in contact with the virus symptom occur within 48 hours Symptoms: The most symptoms of influenza are weakness, fatigue, muscle aches, headaches, fever, sneezing, and maybe a runny nose. Although a person with influenza feels very sick, it rarely leads to more serious complications, except for those at greater risk. How it causes infections: it is a highly contagious, common airborne disease Its a respiratory infection that causes above symptoms How body attempts to fight it: your immune system sends out counteractive cells e.g. phagocytes, leukocytes to attack & kill the virus. Your temperature rises