Influenza is an infection of the nose, throat and lungs, which are part of the respiratory system. Flu is caused by a virus. Influenza is commonly called the flu, but it's different from the "stomach flu" viruses that cause diarrhoea and vomiting. Definition of the pathology
H. pylori is a type of bacteria that infects your stomach. It attacks your stomach and the first part of your small intestine (duodenum). This can cause redness and swelling (inflammation). Many people with the bacteria don't have any symptoms. Definition of the pathology
Herpes simplex virus (HSV), also known as herpes, is a common infection that can cause painful blistering or ulcerating lesions. It is mainly spread by skin-to-skin contact. Treatments are available, but there is no cure. There are two types of herpes simplex virus. Symptom Definition
Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and, rarely, Borrelia mayonii. It is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks. Typical symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans. Definition of the pathology
Meningitis is an infection and inflammation of the fluid and membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Definition of the pathology
Infectious mononucleosis is often called kissing disease. The virus that causes mono (Epstein-Barr virus) is spread through saliva. You can catch it by kissing, but you can also be exposed by sharing a glass or eating utensils with someone who has mono. However, mono isn't as contagious as some infections, such as the common cold. Definition of the pathology
Pinworm infection (called enterobiasis or oxyuriasis) causes itching around the anus which can lead to difficulty sleeping and restlessness. Symptoms are caused by the female pinworm laying her eggs. Symptoms of pinworm infection usually are mild and some infected people have no symptoms. Definition of the pathology
Salmonella infection (salmonellosis) is a common bacterial disease that affects the intestinal tract. Salmonella bacteria typically live in the intestines of animals and humans and are shed in the stool (faeces). Humans are most commonly infected by contaminated water or food. Definition of the pathology
Scarlet fever is a bacterial disease that develops in some people who have strep throat. Also known as scarlatina, scarlet fever is characterised by a bright red rash that covers most of the body. Scarlet fever is almost always accompanied by a sore throat and high fever. Definition of the pathology
Staphylococci are pathogenic bacteria that cause a wide range of diseases of varying severity. They are a major cause of nosocomial (hospital-acquired) infections but can also be acquired outside hospitals (community-acquired). Definition of the pathology
Taeniasis is an infection caused by a tapeworm. You can get this parasitic infection by eating contaminated water or food, especially beef or pork. Definition of the pathology
Traveller's diarrhoea is an illness of the digestive tract that often causes loose stools and stomach cramps. It's caused by eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water. Fortunately, for most people, traveller's diarrhoea isn't serious - it's just uncomfortable. Definition of the pathology
Tuberculosis is a serious disease that mainly affects the lungs. The germs that cause tuberculosis are a type of bacteria. Tuberculosis can spread when a person with the disease coughs, sneezes or sings. This can send tiny droplets containing the bacteria into the air. Another person can then breathe in the droplets and the germs can enter the lungs. Definition of the pathology
