Infection control

Infection control

Methods used to eliminate or reduce the transmission of infectious organisms.

Bacteria

Microorganisms that have both plant and animal characteristics; capable of causing diseases.

Microorganisms

Organisms of microscopic or sub microscopic size, which can be harmful or harmless.

Pathogenic

Harmful microorganisms that can cause disease or infections in humans.

Cocci

Round-shaped bacteria that can appear singly or in groups.

Staphylocci

Pus-forming bacteria that grow in clusters, may not cause infection in healthy humans.

Streptocci

Pus-forming bacteria arranged in curved lines, causes infections like strep throat.

Diplococci

Bacteria that grow in pairs and can cause diseases such as pneumonia.

Spirilla

Spiral-shaped bacteria, which include groups that cause diseases like syphilis and Lyme disease.

Bacilli

Rod-shaped bacteria that are common and can cause diseases such as diphtheria and tuberculosis.

Pus

Fluid created by infection, contains white blood cells, bacteria, and dead cells.

Local infection

An infection confined to a specific part of the body, appearing as a lesion with pus.

MRSA

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a skin infection that is difficult to cure.

Contagious disease

Diseases that can be spread from one person to another, like the common cold and ringworm.

Virus

An entity that can only replicate by taking over a host cell's reproductive function.

Bloodborne pathogens

Disease-causing microorganisms carried in the body by blood or body fluids.

Hepatitis

A bloodborne virus that can cause disease and damage to the liver.

HIV

Human Immunodeficiency Virus, which causes AIDS and is spread through blood and body fluids.

Fungi

Microscopic plant parasites that obtain nourishment from dead organic matter or living organisms.

Dermatophytes

Fungi that cause skin, nails, and hair infections.

Parasite

An organism that grows, feeds, and shelters on or in another organism.

Natural immunity

Immunity that is partly inherited and partly developed through healthy living.

Acquired immunity

Immunity developed after overcoming a disease or through vaccinations.