Infectious Diseases
What is infectious disease?
Infectious diseases can be caused by many pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that may cause illness and disease. For humans, transmission of pathogens may occur in a variety of ways: spread from person-to-person by direct contact, water, or foodborne illness or aerosolization of infected particles in the environment.
Signs and symptoms and treatment of infectious diseases depend on the host and the pathogen. Anyone can get an infectious disease. People with a compromised immune system have greater risk for certain types of infections. Doctors diagnose infectious diseases using a variety of laboratory tests. Samples of blood, urine, stool, mucus, or other body fluids are examined and provide information used in the diagnostic process. In some cases, doctors identify infectious organisms by examining them under a microscope. Occasionally, laboratories must grow, or culture, the infectious organism from a sample to confirm its presence. Treatment depends on which microorganism causes the infection.
Vaccines are available to prevent many common infectious diseases, including: hepatitis, diphtheria, influenza, and herpes zoster. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) has updated recommendations for vaccinations for children, adolescents, and adults.
About Infectious Disease Specialists of Athens
Infectious Disease Specialists of Athens provides outpatient medical care for patients with diseases such as meningitis, staph infections, MRSA, sexually transmitted diseases including HIV/AIDS, and other serious illnesses. Our services include treatment of non-healing wounds, infectious disease consultation, infusion therapy.
Services Offered
- Immunizations and vaccinations
- Management of chronic illnesses
- Specialist consults for other physicians