Infecciones respiratorias

Respiratory infections are diseases that affect both the upper and lower respiratory tract. They are the most frequent cause of medical attention and are mostly caused by viruses, although there are also other pathogens that cause infection such as bacteria and fungi. It is mainly transmitted from person to person through the expulsion of saliba droplets when coughing or sneezing, but infection can also occur through contact with contaminated surfaces.

Upper respiratory tract infections are very common, especially in autumn and winter, and are mainly caused by viruses. Lower respiratory tract infections are less common, but generally more serious, and can even cause death. Pneumonia is one of the most common infections of this type. It affects the lungs and is caused by bacteria, some viruses such as COVID-19, and some fungi. Tuberculosis is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and commonly affects the lungs, although it can attack other parts of the body.

As diagnosis microbiology techniques are used, such as sputum or blood culture, molecular methods and rapid diagnostic tests. Treatment depends on the infectious agent that caused the disease, so it is important to make an accurate diagnosis to determine treatment. In most cases, only the symptoms are treated, but in other cases it is important to stop the infection with antibiotics or antifungals.