Infections are diseases caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites that can occur in any part of the body, some of which are contagious. They can be diagnosed and treated thanks to advances in diagnostic methods and the use of new antimicrobial drugs. Infectious disease specialists monitor and treat various infectious diseases such as influenza, urinary tract infections, diarrhea, AIDS, meningitis, tuberculosis and jaundice. In addition, infectious disease specialists have an important role in the evaluation of patients with fever, considering that fever is one of the most common manifestations of infectious diseases and that infections are the most common cause of fever. Microbiology laboratories have a decisive role in the diagnosis and follow-up of infectious diseases. The microorganisms that cause these diseases can be identified by culture methods, serologic tests or direct examinations.
Infectious disease specialists work to monitor and prevent hospital infections caused by resistant microorganisms, especially in intensive care units. For this purpose, an infection control committee is formed and has duties such as preventing inappropriate antibiotic use, organizing staff trainings for infection control and supervising the proper and effective cleaning of all units of the hospital.
Infectious disease specialists also advise on the vaccination needs and immunization of adult individuals. Protective vaccines are recommended especially for groups at risk and against common diseases. Vaccines strengthen the immune system by stimulating the production of antibodies that protect the body against infections. Infectious disease specialists therefore emphasize the importance of vaccines and determine the appropriate vaccination schedule.
Infectious diseases can occur in any age group and in any region. Children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible to infections. For this reason, infectious disease specialists work to identify groups at risk, take preventive measures and provide the necessary treatment.
Infectious disease specialists also play an important role in preventing the spread of infections. Measures such as paying attention to hand hygiene, ensuring hygienic conditions and developing hygienic eating habits reduce the spread of infections. In addition, it is among the duties of infectious disease specialists to increase public health awareness and raise public awareness to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Infectious disease specialists assess patients' risk of infection and manage the process of diagnosing and treating infections. In collaboration with doctors and other healthcare professionals, they monitor patients' health status and determine appropriate treatment methods. They also take preventive measures to prevent complications that infectious patients may experience during the treatment process and inform patients about the treatment process.
Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology
