37. Bacterial Disease

Bacteria are single-celled organisms approximately 100 times smaller than human cells. While most bacteria are harmless or even beneficial, certain types are pathogens that cause disease by reproducing rapidly and producing toxins that damage cells and tissues.

1. Salmonella (Food Poisoning)

Salmonella is a type of bacteria that causes food poisoning, primarily affecting the digestive system.

• Transmission: Consuming contaminated food, most commonly undercooked chicken or eggs.

• Prevention: In the UK, poultry is routinely vaccinated against Salmonella to limit the spread to humans.

• Symptoms:

  • Fever

  • Stomach cramps

  • Vomiting

  • Diarrhea

• Treatment: Usually passes on its own within a week. The main focus is maintaining hydration.

2. Gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by bacteria.

• Transmission: Spread through sexual contact, such as unprotected sex.

• Symptoms:

  • Pain during urination.

  • Thick yellow or green discharge from the vagina or penis.

• Prevention: Practicing safe sex and using barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms.

• Treatment:

  • Historically treated with the antibiotic penicillin.

  • Current Challenge: Many strains have become resistant to penicillin, necessitating the use of more specialized and expensive antibiotics.

Summary Table: Bacterial Diseases

Key Takeaways

• Toxins: The primary way bacteria make us feel ill is by releasing toxins that damage our tissues.

• Antibiotic Resistance: The effectiveness of standard treatments like penicillin is decreasing as bacterial strains evolve to resist them.