Common Infectious Diseases
Infectious Diseases
Bacterial Diseases
Strep throat- Strep bacteria usually found in the nose and throat and can be spread by contact with mucus from an infected person. Symptoms include sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, headache, and fever.
Lyme Disease- This is caused when bitten by an infected tick. Symptoms include a red rash at the site of the bite, fever, chills, and body aches.
Bacterial Meningitis- An infection of the fluid in the spinal cord and the fluid that surrounds the brain. Symptoms include high fever, headache, vomiting, and a stiff neck.
Tuberculosis- A highly contagious bacterial infection of the lungs that is transmitted when droplets from an infected person's cough or sneeze are inhaled. Symptoms may include fatigue, weight loss, mild fever, and a constant cough.
Treating Bacterial Diseases
Viral Diseases
Influenza- The flu is a common viral infection of the upper respiratory system. Influenza is spread by airborne droplets and contact with contaminated objects. High fever, sore throat, headache, and a cough are typical symptoms.
Pneumonia- In elderly or people with heart disease the flu may develop into pneumonia which is a serious infection of the lungs. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or even fungi.
Hepatitis- A group of viruses that infect the liver or inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis is a serious disease. Symptoms include fever, nausea, pain in the abdomen, and jaundice, or yellowing of the skin. Hepatitis A is transmitted in human waste and contaminated water or food. Hepatitis B is transmitted trough blood or sexual contact. Hepatitis C is also transmitted in blood, sexual contact, or tattoos and piercings.