Handbook of Clinical Infectious Diseases

Infectious diseases are caused by pathogens like fungi, bacteria and viruses. These diseases can spread through direct contact, such as from one person to another, from animal to person, and from mother to an unborn child. They can also be transmitted indirectly through bug bites, contaminated water or food, and exposure to pathogens in the environment. The most common infectious diseases include influenza, hepatitis, common cold, tuberculosis, urinary tract infections (UTIs), strep throat, vaginal candidiasis and clostridioides difficile. The signs of infectious diseases vary based on the pathogens causing the infections, which may include fatigue, fever, congestion, chills, cough, muscle aches and headache, and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. A weakened immune system as a result of consumption of various medications, or having diseases like HIV and cancer are the risk factors of infectious diseases. The risk of infection can be reduced by washing hands regularly, getting vaccinated, staying back at home during illness, clean and safe preparation of food, and practicing safe sex. This book aims to understand the clinical perspectives of infectious diseases. The readers would gain knowledge that would broaden their perspective in this area of medicine.