NEWS & RESOURCES

Infectious diseases are caused by pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi; the diseases can be spread, directly or indirectly, from one person to another. Zoonotic diseases are infectious diseases of animals that can cause disease when transmitted to humans. -"World Health Organization"

Resources: Articles & Resources

PREP RESOURCES

The cost of PrEP is covered by most health insurance programs and Medicaid. But, if a patient has PrEP-related out-of-pocket expenses like copays or deductibles, a copay assistance program can help cover the costs of the medication. Copay assistance may be obtained from the drug manufacturer, a nonprofit copay foundation, or both. (See more from CDC)

WHAT ARE STDS?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections or STIs, are very common. STDs are passed from one person to another through sexual activity including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. They can also be passed from one person to another through intimate physical contact, such as heavy petting, though this is not very common.

STDs don’t always cause symptoms or may only cause mild symptoms, so it is possible to have an infection and not know it. That is why it is important to get tested if you are having sex. If you are diagnosed with an STD, know that all can be treated with medicine and some can be cured entirely. (SEE MORE FROM CDC)

THE FLU: WHAT TO DO IF YOU GET SICK

Influenza (also known as flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu is different from a cold. Flu usually comes on suddenly. (SEE MORE FROM CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION)

THERE ARE VACCINES YOU NEED AS AN ADULT

You may not realize that you need vaccines throughout your life. Adults need to keep their vaccinations up to date because immunity from childhood vaccines can wear off over time. You are also at risk for different diseases as an adult. Vaccination is one of the most convenient and safest preventive care measures available. (SEE MORE FROM CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION)

FACTS ABOUT INFECTIOUS DISEASE

Infectious diseases are caused by microscopic organisms that penetrate the body’s natural barriers and multiply to create symptoms that can range from mild to deadly. Although progress has been made to eradicate or control many infectious diseases, humankind remains vulnerable to a wide array of new and resurgent organisms. (SEE MORE FROM INFECTIOUS DISEASES SOCIETY OF AMERICA)

ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE

Antibiotics, antivirals, and other antimicrobials have saved millions of lives worldwide, but these drugs are losing their effectiveness because of antimicrobial resistance. Antimicrobial resistance refers to microbes' natural ability to evolve genetically to counter the drugs. Some of this is inevitable, but over-prescription and improper use of antimicrobials plays a big role. (SEE MORE FROM INFECTIOUS DISEASES SOCIETY OF AMERICA)