When talking about disease, the word infection must have been heard often and is no longer foreign to the ear. However, not a few people do not know more about infection, starting from what infection is, how infection occurs in the body, to general symptoms that may be experienced by someone who has an infection.
Infection is a condition when microbial organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites enter the human body or other creatures and begin to reproduce in it. These microbial organisms can cause symptoms or diseases in the infected body.
There are several ways that infection occurs in the body, such as through direct contact, air, food and drink consumed, to insect bites. Here is the explanation:
- Direct contact
When someone comes into contact with an infected microbial organism, for example through shaking hands, holding hands, or other physical contact.
- Air
Microbes can spread through the air when someone who is infected coughs or sneezes, releasing droplets containing microbes. Other people who inhale the air can become infected if they are exposed to the droplets.
- Food and drink
Consuming food or drink contaminated with microbes can also cause infection. This can happen if food or drinks are not processed or cooked properly.
- Insect bites
Some infections can be spread through insect bites such as mosquitoes (for example, malaria) or fleas (for example, typhoid fever).
Regarding the symptoms, the symptoms of infection vary depending on the type of microbe that causes the infection and which part of the body is affected. Some common symptoms of infection include fever, pain, swelling, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. These symptoms can appear within a short time after infection or may take several days or even weeks.
In addition, the infection that occurs can be a mild infection or a severe infection. This depends on the type of microbe, the individual’s immune system, and the treatment given. Serious infections may require medical treatment, while mild infections may heal with rest and self-care.
When talking about infections, it is very important to maintain personal hygiene, wash your hands properly, get recommended vaccinations, and avoid contact with infected people to reduce the risk of infection. Some of these things can also be said to be good efforts to prevent yourself from infection.