Infective

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Infective refers to the ability of a pathogen to establish an infection. The term is often used in the context of diseases and conditions caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms.

Definition[edit | edit source]

An Infective agent or substance is capable of producing an infection. This can be a bacterium, virus, or other type of microorganism, which can cause disease in its host. The host can be an animal, a plant, or even another microorganism.

Types of Infective Agents[edit | edit source]

There are several types of infective agents, including:

  • Bacteria - These are single-celled organisms that can cause diseases such as pneumonia, strep throat, and urinary tract infections.
  • Viruses - These are smaller than bacteria and can cause diseases such as the flu, colds, and COVID-19.
  • Fungi - These include molds and yeasts, which can cause infections like athlete's foot and yeast infections.
  • Parasites - These are organisms that live on or in a host organism and get their food from or at the expense of their host. Parasites can cause diseases such as malaria and toxoplasmosis.

Infective Diseases[edit | edit source]

Infective diseases are caused by the invasion of the body by pathogenic microorganisms. Some examples of infective diseases include:

  • Influenza - A viral infection that attacks the respiratory system.
  • Tuberculosis - A bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs.
  • HIV/AIDS - A viral infection that attacks the immune system.
  • Malaria - A parasitic infection that is spread by mosquitoes.

Prevention and Treatment[edit | edit source]

Prevention and treatment of infective diseases often involve a combination of vaccination, hygiene practices, and medication. For example, bacterial infections can often be treated with antibiotics, while viral infections may be prevented through vaccination.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Infective Resources
Wikipedia
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD