Infectious Diseases and Droplet Precautions Vocabulary

Sepsis, Scarlet Fever, and Strep Throat

  • Sepsis
    • Sepsis is defined as a life-threatening systemic response to an infection.
    • While the underlying infection that triggers the response may be localized (such as pneumonia), the systemic nature of sepsis often requires the implementation of strict infection control measures.
  • Scarlet Fever
    • Scarlet Fever is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus.
    • The infection results in the appearance of a bright red rash.
    • It is highly contagious and is spread through respiratory droplets.
  • Strep Throat
    • Strep Throat is an infection focusing on the throat and tonsils.
    • It is caused by Streptococcus bacteria.
    • The disease is easily spread through droplets produced by coughing or sneezing.

Parvovirus B19, Pneumonia, and Pertussis

  • Parvovirus B19
    • Parvovirus B19 is known for causing "fifth disease."
    • It typically manifests as a red rash on the cheeks of children.
    • Transmission occurs through respiratory secretions.
  • Pneumonia
    • Pneumonia is characterized as an inflammation of the lung tissue.
    • Droplet precautions are required to prevent transmission when pneumonia is caused by certain pathogens, specifically Mycoplasma or Haemophilus influenzae.
  • Pertussis
    • Pertussis is also commonly referred to as "whooping cough."
    • It is a highly contagious respiratory disease.
    • Clinical presentation is characterized by severe, hacking coughs.

Influenza

  • Influenza
    • Commonly known as "the flu," influenza is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system.
    • It is considered the classic example of an illness spread through droplets.

Rubella and Group M Pathogens

  • Rubella
    • Rubella is also known as "German Measles."
    • It is a viral infection that causes a red rash.
    • The virus is highly transmissible via respiratory droplets.
  • Mumps
    • Mumps is a viral infection that specifically affects the salivary glands.
  • Meningitis
    • Meningitis is the inflammation of the protective membranes (meninges) that cover the brain and spinal cord.
    • When the condition is caused by bacteria such as Neisseria meningitidis, it is treated as a major priority for droplet precautions.
  • Mycoplasma
    • Mycoplasma is a type of bacteria distinguished by its lack of a cell wall.
    • It is often the cause of mild "walking pneumonia."
  • Meningococcal Pneumonia
    • This is a specific type of pneumonia caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis.
    • This is the same bacteria responsible for causing meningococcal meningitis.

Adenovirus

  • Adenovirus
    • Adenovirus refers to a group of viruses that cause a diverse range of illnesses.
    • Clinical manifestations include common colds, sore throats, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
    • These viruses are easily spread through respiratory droplets as well as through contact with contaminated surfaces.

Diphtheria and Epiglottitis

  • Diphtheria
    • Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection.
    • It can cause a thick coating to form in the back of the throat, which creates difficulty breathing.
    • It is spread primarily through respiratory droplets.
  • Epiglottitis
    • Epiglottitis is the inflammation of the epiglottis, the flap located at the base of the tongue.
    • It is often caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib).
    • The condition is considered a medical emergency because it can lead to airway obstruction.