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Category: Identifying Infections

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Gastroenteritis

What is it? Gastroenteritis, known as 'gastro', is inflammation of the stomach and intestinal tract caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, chemicals and some drugs.   What are the symptoms? Diarrhoea is the most common symptom Appetite loss Bloating Nausea Vomiting Abdominal cramps and pain  Blood in faeces - in some cases...

RSV

What is it?   RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a virus that causes respiratory infections. RSV can affect both children and adults. RSV may infect a majority of children by the age of three. Recovery from RSV gives some immunity against re-infection, although it is not long-lasting.   What...

Rhinovirus

What is it?   Rhinovirus is caused by viruses that inflame the nose and throat membranes. More than 200 viruses can cause colds, however, rhinovirus causes most common colds. What are the symptoms?                           Sore throat Congestion Pressure in...

E. coli

What is it?   E. coli (Escherichia coli) is a bacteria present in the intestines of healthy people. Generally, E. coli bacteria are harmless or cause brief symptoms of diarrhoea, although certain strains of E. coli lead to more severe symptoms.   What are the symptoms? Infection with E. coli can begin...

Shingles

What is it? Shingles infection is caused by the varicella-zoster virus which also causes chickenpox.  Anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles because after the initial chickenpox illness resolves the virus stays dormant in the body.  If the virus is reactivated later in life, it results in shingles which...

UTIs (Urinary Tract Infections)

What is it? Urinary tract infections are the most common bacterial infection in the elderly population. UTIs are caused by bacteria entering the bladder through the urethra and multiplying within the urine in the bladder. Bacteria may also travel up to the kidneys and cause pyelonephritis, leading to bloodstream infections.  These...