What is polio and  it cause?

When we think of polio, we usually think of children in braces or requiring a iron lung to breathe. However, the vast majority of poliovirus infections have no symptoms at all. Less than 10 percent have a minor illness with a fever or sore throat. Less than 5 percent have a mild case of meningitis, and around 1 percent have the full-fledged paralysis of certain muscles (poliomyelitis). Only about a third of those with paralysis recover completely. More…

What is hepatitis B and what kind of problems does it cause?

Hepatitis B is a virus that infects and attacks the liver. Many people are exposed to the virus at some time in their lives and are able to fight the acute infection off completely with no complications or only mild, temporary symptoms. However, some people are unable to eradicate the virus and become chronically infected. They have the hepatitis B virus in the body for the rest of their lives. This latter group of people is called chronic hepatitis B carriers and can spread the virus to other people. In addition, over many years, the chronic infection may damage the liver and lead to liver failure. In certain circumstances, the virus can also lead to liver cancer. More…

What is influenza and what kind of problems does it cause?

Influenza is a virus that usually leads to respiratory symptoms, such as a cough and a runny nose. However, it is also associated with other symptoms, such as a high fever, chills, muscle aches, and general fatigue. More…

What is rotavirus and what kind of problems does it cause?

Rotavirus is an intestinal, or stomach, virus that causes diarrhea. Because the diarrhea is more copious and frequent than with other viruses, it is easier for children to become dehydrated. More…

What are diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis and what kind of problems do they cause?

Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that infects the throat and nose and can form a membrane that restricts the flow of air into the lungs. Tetanus is a bacterial infection that is introduced into the body via a deep and dirty cut in the skin. As the bacteria grow, they produce a toxin that affects the nerves, blocking certain signals to the muscles. This leads to muscle spasms, including those of the jaw. This is where the common name for tetanus, “lockjaw,” originated. More…