The Top 5 Diseases You Can Catch in the Hospital
Going to the hospital is supposed to be a safe place to get better from an illness or injury. But did you know that hospitals can also be a breeding ground for dangerous diseases? In fact, there are several diseases that you can catch in the hospital.
Clostridioides difficile (C. Diff)
C. Diff is a type of bacteria that causes diarrhea, fever, and stomach pain. It is most commonly found in hospitals and nursing homes where people are more likely to be taking antibiotics. The antibiotics kill off the good bacteria in your gut, leaving your body vulnerable to C. Diff. The best way to prevent C. Diff is to wash your hands regularly and practice good hygiene.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
MRSA is a type of staph infection that is resistant to many antibiotics. It can cause skin infections, pneumonia, and bloodstream infections. MRSA is commonly spread in hospitals through contact with contaminated surfaces, equipment, or healthcare workers. To prevent MRSA, it is important to wash your hands regularly, avoid sharing personal items, and follow hospital guidelines for preventing the spread of infections.
Candida auris
Candida auris is a type of yeast that can cause serious bloodstream and wound infections. It is most commonly found in healthcare settings, and is difficult to treat because it is resistant to many antifungal medications. Candida auris is typically spread from person to person through contact with contaminated surfaces or healthcare workers. To prevent Candida auris, it is important to follow hospital guidelines for infection prevention and control.
Tuberculosis (TB)
TB is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs, but can also cause infections in other parts of the body. TB is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Healthcare workers are at risk for TB because they may come into contact with infected patients. To prevent TB, healthcare workers should follow hospital guidelines for tuberculosis prevention, such as wearing masks and following proper ventilation protocols.
Influenza
Influenza, also known as the flu, is a viral infection that can cause respiratory illness, fever, and body aches. The flu is highly contagious and can be spread from person to person through the air or by touching contaminated surfaces. Healthcare workers are at risk for the flu because they may come into contact with infected patients. To prevent the flu, healthcare workers should receive a flu vaccine every year and follow hospital guidelines for preventing the spread of infection.
Conclusion
Hospitals can be a dangerous place for patients and healthcare workers alike. By following proper infection prevention and control guidelines, we can help prevent the spread of these diseases and keep everyone safe. Remember to always practice good hygiene, wash your hands regularly, and follow hospital guidelines for preventing the spread of infection.
