Health Topics: Infectious Diseases

What is Avian Influenza (Bird flu)? Does the virus spread easily from birds to humans? How do people become infected? How is it treated? Is a vaccine being produced?

What is hepatitis A? How does it occur? What are the symptoms? How is it treated? How long will the effects last? What can be done to help prevent hepatitis A?

Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by viral or bacterial organisms. Cultures and serologic testing are used to identify the specific cause.

Mumps is an acute viral infection characterized by a non specific prodrome with myalgia, loss of appetite, fatigue, headache and fever. These symptoms are followed by acute onset of unilateral or bilateral tender swelling of the parotid or other salivary glands.

Pertussis, also know as whooping cough, is a highly communicable bacterial infection that involves the respiratory tract.

Resources in HUHS and throughout Harvard

Rubella is a mild febrile illness with a diffuse punctate, maculopapular rash that resembles the rash of several other communicable diseases.

Information about MRSA (Methacillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus) infections, with an overview of higher risk groups and prevention suggestions.

Online Resources: Infectious Diseases

This fact sheet provides general information about avian influenza (bird flu) and information about one type of bird flu, called avian influenza A (H5N1), that has caused infections in birds and in humans.

The Massachusetts Department of Pubic Health has a put together a fact sheet on Hepatitis A.

The Arlington Board of Health has on-line information on Hepatitis A and a hotline at 781-316-3413.

Information on Momps vaccination from the CDC.

Further information on Rubella (Measles) from the National Center for Infectious Deseases.