Bacteria are single-celled organisms that can cause an infection if they enter the body. Bacterial infections can affect all parts of the body, including the heart, brain, skin and teeth. They're usually treated with antibiotics.


People Holding Clear Glass Bottle

bacterial-infections

Bacteria are single-celled organisms that can cause an infection if they enter the body. Bacterial infections can affect all parts of the body, including the heart, brain, skin and teeth. They're usually treated with antibiotics.

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

Listeria medical concept, group of bacteria causing illness as a 3D illustration

Listeria medical concept, group of bacteria causing illness as a 3D illustration (credit - wildpixel)

What is listeriosis — and what are the symptoms?

Handful of antibiotics tablets 

Antibiotics

Leptospirosis

Diphtheria

Staphylococcal infections

Streptococcal infections

Pneumococcal infections

Trachoma

Typhus

Q fever

Botulism

Actinomycetes, gram-positive anaerobic bacteria 

Actinomycosis

Typhoid fever

Staphylococcal Infections

Brucellosis

Viral infections are caused by germs called viruses. These tiny organisms invade and damage the cells of the body. The symptoms you may notice when you have a viral infection are caused by this damage and your body fighting the virus. Common examples of viral infections include chickenpox and the common cold. 


Mother blowing nose of her sick son during winter walk

viral-infections

What are the incubation periods for infections? 

Skin infections are caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. They can lead to skin changes, like a rash, redness, pain and swelling. Some skin infections clear up on their own, while others need treatment.


Woman scratching a red patch of skin on her hand

Woman scratching a red patch of skin on her hand (credit - ipopba)

skin-infections

Cellulitis

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Tuberculosis mainly affects the lungs, but it can also affect your brain, bones and nervous system. 


Young Female Doctor listening with stethoscope on patient's back 

tuberculosis

Tuberculosis drugs and their side effects

Why is everyone eating quinoa? Discover the health benefits of this super-healthy seed and how to use it in a variety of dishes.

Quinoa: what is it and what are the health benefits?

It’s common for babies to get tiny white bumps called milia – but adults can get them, too. Find out what causes them and what you can do about them.

What are milia and what can you do about them?

You may find it tricky to make time for breakfast every day – but a bit of planning can make it easy. Try these healthy breakfast ideas and enjoy a tasty and nutritious start to the day.

10 healthy breakfast ideas

Wondering about taking protein powder? Learn about the possible benefits of protein powder for weight loss as well as protein powder for building muscle.

Should you be using protein powder?

Rosacea is a common skin condition, but the redness and irritation it causes can be difficult to live with. Get tips for finding the best moisturiser to help to soothe and calm your skin.

What is the best moisturiser for rosacea?

Wondering how – or if – massage therapy really works? Find out about the different types of massage therapy, which type of massage therapy might work for you and the potential benefits of massage therapy.

What is massage therapy and how does it work?

Rosacea can cause redness and irritated, dry skin – but the right skincare routine can help. Discover the best products for soothing and reducing the appearance of rosacea.

What are the best products for rosacea?

There are still lots of myths and misconceptions about tampons. Discover the facts, so you can use them safely.

Can you sleep with a tampon in? Your tampon questions answered

Losing weight after pregnancy and birth can take time, and it’s important to do it safely. Discover when and how to lose your baby weight.

Postpartum weight loss – how to lose weight safely after giving birth

During the COVID-19 pandemic, some experts have recommended buying a pulse oximeter to use at home. Find out what a pulse oximeter is and what it can tell you about your health.

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Bacterial infections summary