Communicable (Infectious) Disease

• Any agent that causes disease– Viruses– Fungi– Protozoans– Bacteria– Parasites

Pathogens

Bacteria

• Tiny, single-celled organisms• Found everywhere• Some cause disease• Treated with antibiotics

– Examples: tuberculosis, tetanus, and sinus infections

Staph Infection

Viruses

• Tiny disease-causing particles made up of genetic material and a protein coat

• Some can be prevented with vaccines• Cannot be cured

– Examples: common cold, flu, AIDS

Chicken Pox

Fungi

• Organisms that absorb and use the nutrients of living or dead organisms.– Examples: athlete’s foot, ringworm, jock itch

Athlete’s Foot

Protozoans

• Similar to bacteria but larger– Example: malaria

Parasites

• “Bugs” that get their energy and nutrients by feeding on other living things– Examples: head lice, tapeworms

Head Lice

TRANSMISSION

How are diseases spread?

• Direct Contact– Person to person

• Indirect Contact– Touching surfaces– Airborne

• Food/Water• Animals

PREVENTION

Physical Barriers

• Skin (first line of defense)• Mucous Membranes• Chemicals

Immune System

• Antibodies bind to pathogens and white blood cells kill the pathogens

Get vaccinated

• Vaccines – made from a weak or dead virus

• Injected into the body to help body build immunity

What else can you do?

• Protect yourself• Eat a healthy and balanced diet• Drink plenty of water• Reduce your stress level• Exercise regularly• Get regular medical check ups• Try to avoid contact with sick people• Get enough sleep• Wash your hands regularly

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms

• The changes that you notice in your body or mind that are caused by a disease or disorder– Examples: fever, coughing, diarrhea,

vomiting, muscle ache, headache