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Infections

An infection is the colonization of a host organism by parasite species. Infecting parasites seek to use the host's resources to reproduce, often resulting in disease. Colloquially, infections are usually considered to be caused by microscopic organisms or microparasites like viruses, prions, bacteria, and viroids, though larger organisms like macroparasites and fungi can also infect. Hosts normally fight infections themselves via their immune system. Mammalian hosts react to infections with an innate response, often involving inflammation, followed by an adaptive response. Pharmaceuticals can also help fight infections. The branch of medicine that focuses on infections and pathogens is infectious disease medicine.

Listen to conversations about Infections:

MRSA

Dr. Shelley Gordon talks about MRSA, an unusual form of a common bacteria — staphylococci (“staph”) — that has become an increasing source of infections world-wide. “A physician can suspect and prove MRSA to be the cause of an infection … Continue reading →

Information about HIV

Dr. Shelley Gordon discusses changes in HIV since it was first identified in the late 1970s. People are living much longer lives, often free of any symptoms. But some medical problems are becoming more prevalent amongst people with HIV, perhaps … Continue reading →

Introduction to HIV

Dr. Shelley Gordon discusses the ways you can and cannot get HIV.  This virus is transmitted through sex or contact with blood. It is not spread by more casual interactions such as kissing, hugging, or touching tears. So long as … Continue reading →

The Swine Flu

Dr. Shelley Gordon defines what swine flu is, how common fever and muscle aches are. For example, regular flu and swine flu occur at different times of the year. Like all flu viruses, many more people get “infected” than become … Continue reading →

The Flu

Dr. Shelley Gordon defines what the flu is, and how central fever, the time of the year, episodes in the community and muscle aches are to the diagnosis. Blood tests are not always needed if the flu is widespread in … Continue reading →