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Category: Identifying Infections

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Influenza

What is it? Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses that attack the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It is capable of causing mild to severe illness and even death in some cases.    What are the symptoms? High fever (38°C or more) Dry cough Body...

Monkey Pox (MPox)

What is it? Monkeypox, or MPox, is a rare but potentially serious disease similar to smallpox but less severe. It is caused by the MPox virus.  It is particularly concerning for those in aged care facilities and those with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions, as it can lead...

Wound Infections

What is it? A wound infection is a damaged skin area where pathogens have entered the open tissue. The infection triggers the body's immune response, causing inflammation and tissue damage and slowing the healing process.    What are the symptoms? Pain Redness  Swelling increases over time A warm area around the...

Bed Bugs

What is it? Bed bugs are oval-shaped, flat insects. They become brown and grow up to 5mm long as they mature. Even though they need blood to grow, they are resilient and can live for up to a year without eating. Bed bugs commonly live in cracks and crevices in...

Pneumonia

What is it? Pneumonia is a severe illness caused by an infection of the lungs. Bacteria, viruses, and fungi can cause pneumonia resulting in fluid or pus that can fill the air sacs, resulting in pneumonia symptoms.  Aspirating food, fluids, stomach acid, or saliva into the lungs causes aspiration pneumonia.  ...

Norovirus

What is it? Norovirus is a highly contagious viral infection that causes gastroenteritis, a stomach, and intestinal disease. Norovirus infections are highly contagious and are a leading cause of gastroenteritis worldwide. Norovirus outbreaks can occur any time of the year, although more common during winter.   What are the symptoms? Norovirus...