Respiratory Tract Infections Flashcards
Define antigenic shift
A major change in viral antigens due to genetic reassortment, leading to new viral subtypes; primarily seen in influenza A.
Define antigenic drift
A gradual accumulation of mutations in viral genes encoding surface proteins, leading to minor antigenic changes and immune evasion
Clinical features of viral respiratory tract infections
- Cough
- Fever
- Nasal congestion
- Sore throat
- Myalgia
- Fatigue
- in severe cases, Pneumonia or Respiratory failure
Treatment of viral respiratory tract infections
- Supportive care (e.g. hydration, antipyretics, rest)
- Antivirals
Epidemiology of viral respiratory tract infections
- Very common worldwide, with seasonal variations
- Common causes include influenza, RSV, rhinoviruses
- Transmission occurs via droplets, contact, and airborne routes
Prevention of viral respiratory tract infections
- Vaccination (e.g. influenza vaccine)
- Hand hygiene
- Respiratory etiquette
- Isolation of infected individuals
Clinical features of bacterial respiratory tract infections
- High fever
- Productive cough
- Pleuritic chest pain
- Dyspnea
- in severe cases, Sepsis or Empyema
Treatment of bacterial respiratory tract infections
- Antibiotics tailored to pathogen
e.g. amoxicillin for pneumococcal pneumonia
Epidemiology of bacterial respiratory tract infections
- Common causes include: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae
- Transmission occurs via droplets or direct contact
Prevention of bacterial respiratory tract infections
- Vaccination
- Good hygiene practices
Clinical features of fungal respiratory tract infections
- Chronic cough
- Weight loss
- Haemoptysis
- Fever
- in severe cases, may cause Respiratory failure
Treatment of fungal respiratory tract infections
Antifungal medications
Epidemiology of fungal respiratory tract infections
- More common in immuno-compromised individuals
- Common pathogens include: Aspergillus, Histoplasma, Cryptococcus
Prevention of fungal respiratory tract infections
Avoid high-risk environments (e.g. construction sites, bird droppings)
