Virology and Immunology

Bacterial and Fungal Diseases

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Bacteria are microscopic unicellular organisms. They are one of the earliest known life forms on Earth. There are thousands of different types of bacteria, which inhabit every conceivable environment around the world. Some are suspended in the air, while others are most common in water, soil, plants, animals, and even humans. Many strains of bacteria are harmless, and some are even useful, such as those found in the human gastrointestinal tract to aid digestion and produce vitamins. Few cause illness in humans (less than 1% of all bacterial species). Some bacteria are extremely dangerous and can cause salmonella, pneumonia, or meningitis.                               

When fungi invade tissues, they can cause illnesses that can be localized to the skin, spread to tissues, bones, or organs, or affect the entire body. Symptoms vary depending on the area affected, but include rashes and vaginal infections that lead to abnormal secretions. Treatment includes antifungal drugs.

Related associations and societies

Brazilian Society for Virology, Swedish Society for Virology, Viruses: National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Infectious Diseases Society of America, Canadian Society for Virology, German Society for Virology, Italian Society for Virology, Spanish Society for Virology, American Society for Virology, Australasian Virology Society.