What Is Hepatitis A? Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). Hepatitis A is also called infectious hepatitis. How Do People Get Hepatitis A? HAV spreads through the feces (poop) of infected individuals. Someone can become infected by eating, drinking, or touching something (such as doorknobs or diapers) that’s been …
What Is Food Poisoning? Food poisoning is caused by bacteria and, sometimes, viruses or other germs. They can get into the food we eat or the liquids we drink. We can’t taste, smell, or see these germs (at least not without a microscope). But even though they’re tiny, they can have a powerful effect on the body. …
What Is the Flu? Flu is the common name for influenza. It’s caused by a virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. Often, when you’re sick with a virus, your body builds a defense system by making antibodies against it. That means you usually don’t get that particular type of virus again. Unfortunately, flu …
What Are Germs? The term “germs” refers to the microscopic bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa that can cause disease. Washing hands well and often is the best way to prevent germs from leading to infections and sickness. What Problems Can Germs Cause? When germs invade the body, they get ready to stay for a while. These …
What Is Encephalitis? Encephalitis is an inflammation (swelling and irritation) of the brain. In most cases, a virus causes this inflammation. Encephalitis is also called acute viral encephalitis or aseptic encephalitis. Who Gets Encephalitis? Encephalitis (in-seh-fuh-LYE-tus) is a rare disease. Most cases happen in children, the elderly, and people with a weakened immune system (from HIV/AIDS, cancer, etc.). Several thousand cases of encephalitis …
What Are E. Coli Infections? E. coli is a type of bacteria that normally lives inside our intestines, where it helps the body break down and digest the food we eat. But certain types (or strains) of E. coli are infectious and spread through contaminated food or water, or from other infected people or animals. Infections due to Escherichia coli bacteria can …
What Is Diarrhea? Diarrhea is frequent, soft or loose bowel movements (poop). Most people get diarrhea from time to time. It usually doesn’t last long and often gets better on its own. What Causes Diarrhea? Diarrhea is usually caused by an infection in the intestines. The germs that cause the infection are: viruses (most common) bacteria parasites …
What Is Dengue Fever? Dengue (pronounced: DEN-gee) fever is an infectious disease. It can cause high fevers, headaches, rashes, and pain throughout the body. Although dengue fever can be very painful, it’s not usually fatal. Most people who get it start feeling better after several days and recover fully in a couple of weeks. Dengue …
What’s a Cold? A cold is an infection of the upper respiratory system. This means it can affect the nose, throat, and sinuses. A cold virus gets inside your body and makes you sick. Most teens get between two and four colds a year. That’s not surprising — colds are the most common infectious disease …
What Are Cold Sores? Cold sores are small painful blisters that can appear around the mouth, face, or nose. Cold sores (or fever blisters) are very common. They usually go away on their own within 1 to 2 weeks. What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Cold Sores? Cold sores first form blisters on the …
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