Bacterial Infections

What is Meningococcal Disease? Meningococcal disease is any type of infection that’s caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis, which is also called meningococcus. The bacteria can infect the meninges and the blood. These infections can be serious, even fatal. They’re called meningococcal meningitis and meningococcal septicemia. The word “meninges” means the …

What is Pneumococcal Disease? Pneumococcal disease is an infection caused by bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae (also known as pneumococcus). It’s contagious and may cause severe illness, so early diagnosis and treatment is important. Pneumococcal disease can affect many different systems in your body. It may result in conditions with mild symptoms like …

What is primary amoebic meningoencephalitis? Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), also called amoebic meningitis, is a serious illness. It causes inflammation of the brain. An amoeba (Naegleria fowleri) causes PAM. The amoebas live in warm, fresh water and soil. Infection often happens during water-based recreational activities. Although many people have contact with the …

Definition Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium that occurs naturally in marine and estuarine waters throughout the world. It thrives in warm waters (especially warmer than 18ºC) and it is therefore common in tropical and subtropical estuarine and sea waters. The bacterium can be present in the water itself and in …

What is Haemophilus influenzae? Haemophilus influenzae or H. influenzae, represents a group of bacteria that may cause different types of infections in infants and children. H. influenzae most commonly causes ear, eye, or sinus infections, and pneumonia. A more serious strain of the bacteria called H. influenzae type b has been …

What is melioidosis? Melioidosis, also known as Whitmore’s disease, is an uncommon bacterial infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei. The disease affects humans and animals. Individuals acquire the bacteria through direct contact with contaminated soil and surface waters. Transmission The bacterium that causes melioidosis usually enters the body via cuts and sores …

What is Lymphangitis? Lymphangitis is an infection or inflammation of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is a crucial part of the immune system. It is designed to collect fluids from cells and tissues in the body and help them re-enter the bloodstream. The organs within the lymphatic system, such …

Overview Clostridium Difficile is a bacterium that causes an infection of the large intestine (colon). Symptoms can range from diarrhea to life-threatening damage to the colon. The bacterium is often referred to as C. difficile or C. diff. Illness from Clostridium Difficile typically occurs after use of antibiotic medications. It most commonly …