The Silent Danger: 5 Diseases You Can Catch in a Hospital
When we go to hospitals, we expect to get better. However, there is a silent danger lurking in hospitals that many people do not know about- nosocomial infections. These are infections that you can get when you are in a hospital and are caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Here are five diseases you can catch in a hospital, and what you can do to avoid them.
1. Clostridium difficile (C-diff)
C-diff is a bacteria that lives in the gut and is passed in feces. It is particularly dangerous for people who are already taking antibiotics, as it can cause severe diarrhea and even sepsis. C-diff is easily spread, and healthcare workers can track it around the hospital on their hands and clothing. To avoid getting C-diff, make sure to wash your hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom and before eating. If you are hospitalized with an infection, make sure to ask your doctor about the risks of C-diff and if you need to take additional precautions.
2. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
MRSA is a type of staph bacteria that is resistant to many antibiotics, making it difficult to treat. It can cause severe skin and wound infections, and can even lead to life-threatening sepsis. MRSA is spread through contact with contaminated objects and is easily transferred from person to person. To avoid MRSA, make sure to wash your hands frequently, especially after touching contaminated surfaces. If you have a wound or skin infection, make sure to keep it covered and seek medical attention promptly to prevent the spread of infection.
3. Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE)
VRE is a bacteria that lives in the gut and can cause severe infections in people who are already sick or have weakened immune systems. It is resistant to many antibiotics, and can be difficult to treat. VRE is spread through contact with infected fecal matter, and can be easily transferred between patients. To avoid VRE, make sure to wash your hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom. If you are hospitalized with an infection, make sure to ask your doctor about the risks of VRE and if you need to take additional precautions.
4. Tuberculosis (TB)
TB is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body. It is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and is easily transmitted in a hospital setting. Patients with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable to TB. To avoid TB, make sure to wear a face mask if you are in close contact with someone who has TB. If you are hospitalized with TB, make sure to ask your doctor about the risks of transmission and if you need to take additional precautions.
5. Influenza
Influenza, or the flu, is a respiratory illness caused by a virus. It can spread easily in a hospital setting and can be particularly dangerous for patients with weakened immune systems. To avoid getting the flu, make sure to get vaccinated every year. If you are hospitalized during flu season, make sure to ask your doctor about the risks of getting the flu and if you need to take additional precautions.
In conclusion, hospitals are places where people go to get better, but they can also be dangerous places due to the risk of infection. By following basic hygiene protocols such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding contact with contaminated objects, you can minimize your risk of catching these five diseases and ensure a safe and speedy recovery.
