Mar 5, 2024 · Germs live everywhere. There are germs, also called microbes, in the air; on food, plants and animals; and in the soil and water. Germs are on just about every surface, including the human …

Apr 8, 2025 · Lab tests Many infectious diseases have symptoms in common. Samples of body fluids can sometimes point to the particular germ that causes the illness. This helps your care team make …

Apr 8, 2025 · Infectious diseases are illnesses that happen when tiny living beings get inside the body and multiply. Bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites are examples of organisms that can cause illness. …

A glimpse inside the immune system We tend to take our immune systems for granted. But they work hard to keep us healthy. This complex system of cells is the body’s primary defense system, …

Nov 25, 2025 · Bacteria cause bacterial infections. Viruses cause viral infections. Antibiotic medicines kill or keep many bacteria from growing but don't treat viruses. Antiviral medicines help the body …

Sep 3, 2025 · Pseudomembranous (SOO-doe-mem-bruh-nus) colitis is advanced inflammation of the colon that can cause serious or life-threatening diarrhea. Pseudomembranous colitis is most often …

Sep 20, 2025 · Earwax blockage happens when earwax, called cerumen, builds up in your ear or becomes too hard to wash away naturally. Earwax is a helpful and natural part of your body's …

Feb 10, 2023 · Symptoms of septic shock Sepsis may progress to septic shock. Septic shock is a severe drop in blood pressure. Progression to septic shock raises the risk of death. Symptoms of septic …

Oct 11, 2024 · Overview Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects the stomach and intestines, also called the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms include cramping, belly pain, bloating, …

Apr 3, 2020 · Microbes may be recognized by host immune cells, resulting in systemic cytokine release. Or in some cases, "the bugs make drugs," such that bioactive compounds are secreted by microbes, …