Certain bacteria and viruses may cause infections of varying degrees of severity. Some are simple and subside on their own while others demand antibiotic or antiviral treatment. Certain infection types, however, may be prevented via vaccination.
Bacterial and viral infections are usually contagious
Bacterial and viral infections are usually contagious
Often, bacterial and viral infections are contagious, meaning that they can be transmitted between individuals. In order to avoid transmission to the greatest extent possible and to maintain good health, it is essential to know how bacteria and viruses are transmitted. Transmission can occur in one of several ways:
Bacterial and viral infections are usually contagious
- Bacterial and viral infections are usually contagious
Close contact to an individual with a bacterial or viral infection – touching, kissing
Contact with bodily fluids of a person with a bacterial or viral infection – coughing, sneezing, intercourse
Transmission of infection from mother to child during childbirth
Contact with bacteria-contaminated surfaces – door handles, water taps, followed by touching the face, nose, mouth
An infection can also be transmitted without contact to an infected person:
Bites from infected insects (mosquitoes – malaria, ticks – Lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis),
Ingestion of contaminated food or water
