Download Communicable

Disease
• Communicable = spread from one living
thing to another or through the
environment. (colds, strep throat, mono)
• NON-communicable = not transmitted by
another person, a vector, or the
environment. (heart disease, cancer,
diabetes).
Definitions
• Pathogens = organism that causes
disease (virus, bacteria, fungi,etc.)
• Infection = condition that occurs when
pathogens enter the body, multiply, and
damage body cells.
Virus
• Pieces of genetic material surrounded by a
protein coat.
– Smallest known pathogens
– invades host cell, takes over and copies
– NO CURES
– Run course and immune system will take over
Fungus
• Plantlike organisms, molds and yeast.
– Organic host
– Athlete’s foot, yeast, ringworm
– Cured with Anit-funglas
Bacteria
• Single celled microorganisms that live
almost everywhere on earth.
– Harmful and beneficial
– Can be cure with ANTIBIOTICS
– Help digest food and make needed vitamins
Protozoa
• Single celled organisms that are larger
and more complex than bacteria.
– Ex. Malaria and trichomoniasis
– Cured with drugs that target protozoa
• Rickettsias = resemble bacteria
– Invade cells of another life form
– Insect bites
– Ex. Rocky Mountain Fever
Communicable Diseases
• Cold = inflammation of mucous
membranes.
• Influenza = infection of respiratory tract.
• Pneumonia = serious disease
• Strep Throat = bacterial > direct contact.
• Tuberculosis = attacks the lungs
• Hepatitis = A, B, and C
Transmission
• Direct Contact = touching, biting, kissing, and
sexual contact. Sneezing or coughing can
spread saliva or mucus to a person’s eyes, nose
or mouth.
• Indirect contact = Contaminated objects.
Vectors (an infected carrier that transmits
pathogen to humans or other animals). Water
and food.
• Airborne Transmission = pathogens that travel
through the air for long periods of time (chicken
pox, tuberculosis, and influenza).