Infection

An infection occurs when your body's immune system is not able to fight off bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. A pathogen, commonly known as a germ, causes illness.

Infections are treatable, but they can be serious and life-threatening. See your health care professional if you experience signs of an infection.

Types of Infections

Some of the most common infections are listed here by type.

• Common cold
• The flu (influenza)
• COVID-19.
• Stomach flu (gastroenteritis)
• Hepatitis
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

• Strep throat.
• Salmonella.
• Tuberculosis.
• Whooping cough (pertussis).
• Chlamydia, gonorrhea and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs).

• Ringworm (like athlete’s foot).
• Fungal nail infections.
• Vaginal candidiasis (vaginal yeast infection).
• Thrush.

Common infections caused by parasites:

• Giardiasis
• Toxoplasmosis.
• Hookworms.
• Pinworms.

Cause of Infections

Infections are caused by a variety of agents such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites and prions that invade your body from the outside.

You can get an infection anywhere in body. Some common parts include your mouth, skin, and lungs. Infections can occur in the urinary tract, the rectum, and the genitals.

Symptoms of an infection:

• Fever – Body temperature of 100.5°F (38°C) or higher
• Chills or sweating
• Mouth, throat sores, or a toothache
• Abdominal (belly) pain
• Pain near the anus
• Pain or burning when you urinate
• A cough or difficulty breathing normally

Infections Prevention

• Washing your hands well and often, especially after using the bathroom and before eating
• Take a shower or bath every day
• Using a lotion to prevent dry and cracked skin
• Wear gloves when you garden or do housework, especially while cleaning
• Wash fruits and vegetables carefully
• Clean your teeth and gums with a soft toothbrush. Use mouthwash to prevent infections
• Get a flu shot each fall