The term "infectious disease" covers a number of different illnesses, ranging from common colds to more serious health conditions. While it’s unlikely you’ll contract anything extreme, it’s important to understand the basics of infectious diseases so you can make informed decisions about your health and protect your well-being. Here, the expert physicians at Fairview Clinic, P.C., located in Dothan, AL, offer an overview of what you need to know about infectious diseases.

Causes

Microbes are at the root of every infectious disease. You encounter them in many forms every second of every day, but most of them are completely benign. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, there are more than 10 times as many bacterial cells in your body than human cells! In fact, only a tiny number of microbes make people sick, and they come in five varieties: viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and helminth.

Exposure

While you come into contact with billions of microbes every minute, pathogens, the microbes that cause infectious diseases, are only spread in specific ways. Most commonly, they can be transmitted to you through insect bites, in contaminated food and water, and through contact with infected people and animals. In addition, development in formerly tropical areas and the globalization of transportation have contributed to the spread of new pathogens to communities all over the world.

Prevention

While it is impossible to completely avoid exposure to the pathogens that cause infectious diseases, there are many things you can do to reduce your likelihood of getting sick. First, make sure you get all the vaccinations and health screenings you need from your primary physician to boost your natural defenses. Second, always wash your hands before eating and follow all recommended food handling precautions to avoid exposure to food-borne pathogens. Third, avoid insect bites by wearing bug spray whenever you go outside, especially during the spring and summer. Finally, because your own body is your best defense against infectious diseases, practice healthy living habits that boost your natural immunity, such as exercising regularly, eating well, getting plenty of sleep, and avoiding tobacco and drug use.

With the right information, you can minimize your exposure to the particular microbes that spread infectious diseases and reduce your chances of getting sick. For checkups, vaccinations, and more in Dothan, turn to the internal medicine specialists at Fairview Clinic, P.C. Call them at (334) 794-3192 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online or on Facebook for more information.