Infectious Diseases

An infectious disease is an illness caused by a germ like a bacteria or virus. Though not all infectious diseases require medical intervention, when you have an infection with severe symptoms, the team at Touro University Medical Group in Stockton, California, can help. The team combines evidence-based medicine with patient-focused care to get you the best treatment possible. To schedule an infectious disease appointment, call our office or book one online today.

What is an infectious disease?

An infectious disease is a health condition caused by a harmful organism such as bacteria, a virus, fungi, or a parasite. These organisms may come from other people, insects, or animals, or contaminated food or water.

Infectious diseases are common and affect people all over the world. The common cold, COVID-19, hepatitis, and the flu are examples of viral infectious diseases. Strep throat and tuberculosis (TB) are bacterial infections. 

Anyone can get an infectious disease. However, you may be at a greater risk of getting sick or seriously ill if you have a weakened immune system. 

What are the symptoms of an infectious disease?

Symptoms of an infectious disease vary and depend on the type of infection you have. Common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Body aches
• Fatigue
• Coughing
• Vomiting or diarrhea

The severity of your symptoms may also depend on the cause of the infection, as well as your body’s ability to fight it off.

When should I seek medical help for an infectious disease?

You should seek medical help for an infectious disease at Touro University Medical Group if you have severe symptoms or symptoms that fail to improve with at-home care. 

You also need to schedule an appointment with the infectious disease specialists at the medical group if you have an animal bite, difficulty breathing, or a severe headache with a fever. Any unexplained rash or swelling also warrants a visit with a medical professional. 

Our team at Touro University Medical Group conducts a thorough history and physical when you come in for an infectious disease consultation. We review your symptoms and medical history and complete a physical exam. 

Our team may also run lab work to confirm or rule out the cause of your infection. 

What are the treatments for an infectious disease?

Treatment for an infectious disease depends on the type of infection you have. Our team at Touro University Medical Group can prescribe antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection, antifungal medication for a fungal infection, and antiparasitic drugs to treat parasites.

We may treat some viral infections with antiviral medications (like hepatitis or COVID-19), but most viruses improve over time with at-home care (like the common cold and flu). There are no cures for some viral infections, like human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and our team can provide medication to manage symptoms.

Our team at Touro University Medical Group may also recommend vaccines to protect against infectious diseases. 

For expert infectious disease care from a team that puts your health first, call Touro University Medical Group or schedule an appointment online today.