Infectious diseases are caused by pathogens, or germs, including
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Fungi
- Animal parasites
Infectious diseases may be transmitted from animals to people (such as bird flu) or from person to person (such as MRSA, HIV and other STDs). Germs can enter the body through the following:
- Air
- Skin contact
- Contaminate food or water
- Animal bites
- Sexual contact
Prevention is the key to fighting many, less serious infectious diseases. Preventative measures include proper hand-washing techniques, following nationally recommended immunization schedules for children and adults, and taking medications correctly. However, sometimes infectious diseases can be unavoidable and medical attention is needed.
Virtua infectious disease physicians provide inpatient and outpatient consultations for the diagnosis and treatment of communicable diseases and infections.
More common ailments include:
- Lyme disease
- Tick bite infections
- Influenza, chronic or unexplained fevers
- HIV/AIDS
- Pneumonia
- Tuberculosis
- Rotavirus
However, with the increase and ease of international travel, some bizarre diseases have found their way into the community. Specialists are now diagnosing ailments once found only in more remote parts of the world, including:
- Malaria
- Ebola
- West Nile
- Swine flu
The Swine flu, or N1H1, is the most recent widespread disease. In June 2009, the World Health Organization declared a Swine Flu Pandemic – the first flu pandemic in 41 years. To ensure the highest quality of care and treatment during these times, Virtua Emergency Management team formulated guidelines for the protection and safety of its employees, patients and visitors.