Infectious Diseases

Infectious Diseases are those which can be spread from one person to another, either through direct or indirect contact. These diseases are caused by pathogenic (harmful) microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Although infectious diseases are so common as to be worrisome, it is important to remember that these types of diseases are preventable.

In this section, we’ll review some of the more current and troublesome infectious diseases, including:

H1N1 A relatively new, fast-spreading respiratory flu virus first seen in the United States in April 2009. Also known as “Swine Flu.”

Staph A common bacterial skin infection.

MRSA A strain of the staph bacteria that also causes skin infection but is usually contracted in a hospital or media setting. It is extremely resistant to antibiotics. We’ll also discuss C-MRSA, which is similar but contracted outside of the hospital environment.

E. coli Another potentially dangerous bacteria that can cause respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses.