Infectious diseases are diseases caused by microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, protozoa or fungi. Some species of bacteria and fungi, for example, are present in the body without causing any damage to the body, however when there is some alteration in the immune system, mainly, these microorganisms can proliferate, cause disease, or facilitate the entrance of other microorganisms that cause diseases.
Infectious diseases can be acquired through direct contact with the infectious agent, contact with contaminated food or water, through the respiratory tract, through sexual contact or through animal wounds. Often infectious diseases can also be transmitted to other people, being called infectocontacting diseases.
The main infectious diseases are:
- Infectious diseases caused by viruses : Virose, Zika, Ebola, mumps, HPV and measles;
- Infectious diseases caused by bacteria : tuberculosis, vaginosis, chlamydia, scarlet fever and leprosy;
- Infectious diseases caused by fungi : candidiasis and mycoses;
- Infectious diseases caused by parasites : Chagas' disease, leishmaniasis, toxoplasmosis.
Depending on the micro-organism that causes the disease, there are signs and symptoms characteristic of the disease, the most common being headache, fever, nausea, weakness and fatigue. In order for the diagnosis to be made, it is important to pay attention to the symptoms and to go to the doctor so that laboratory tests are requested according to the signs and symptoms presented by the person and the cause can be identified so that the treatment.
How to avoid
Microorganisms are everywhere, and especially in times of pandemics, it is necessary to learn to protect against diseases, so it is important:
- Wash hands frequently, especially before and after meals and after using the toilet;
- Avoid using the hot air system to dry the hands, as it favors the growth of the germs in the hands;
- Have the vaccination card updated ;
- Store food in the refrigerator and keep raw food stored well away from cooked food;
- Keep the kitchen and bathroom clean as they are places where micro-organisms can be found more often;
- Avoid sharing personal objects such as toothbrushes or blades.
Also it is important to take pets to the veterinarian regularly, as well as keep your vaccines up to date, as pets can be considered as reservoirs of some parasites, and can transmit them to their owners.
