Infection, Infectious Diseases, and Epidemiology

These flashcards cover important concepts related to infection, infectious diseases, and epidemiology based on the lecture notes.

What are the most significant interactions between the human body and microorganisms?

Microbes provide protective and stabilization effects, mature host defenses, and can invade and cause disease.

Define 'Symbiosis.'

Symbiosis means 'to live together' and refers to relationships between microorganisms and their hosts.

What is mutualism in symbiotic relationships?

Mutualism is a type of symbiosis where both organisms benefit.

What factors influence the microbiota in a newborn's large intestine?

The nature of the microbiota is influenced by whether the baby receives breast milk or formula.

What is an opportunistic pathogen?

Normal microbiota that cause disease under certain conditions.

Name the three types of reservoirs for infectious diseases.

Animal reservoirs, human carriers, and nonliving reservoirs.

What is zoonosis?

Zoonosis refers to diseases that naturally spread from animal hosts to humans.

List the portals of entry for pathogens.

Skin, mucous membranes, and placenta.

What is the difference between exotoxins and endotoxins?

Exotoxins are secreted proteins that can cause damage; endotoxins are part of Gram-negative bacteria's cell wall and released upon cell death.

What is the incubation period in infectious disease stages?

It is the initial stage where the pathogen is present but symptoms have not yet appeared.

How are infectious diseases classified?

By taxonomic categories, body system they affect, longevity and severity, and their modes of transmission.

What are Koch's postulates?

A series of criteria to establish a causative relationship between a microbe and a disease.

What is the role of public health agencies?

To limit disease transmission, ensure cleanliness of water/food, and educate the public on health.