Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections happen when harmful bacteria enter the body and multiply. Bacteria are everywhere — most are harmless or even useful (like the bacteria in our gut). Some cause mild illnesses; others cause serious or life-threatening disease.

Common bacterial infections

• Throat infections (strep throat)
• Ear infections
• Sinusitis
• Pneumonia
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin infections — boils, cellulitis, impetigo
• Food poisoning — from Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, Shigella
• Sexually transmitted infections — gonorrhoea, syphilis, chlamydia
• Typhoid
• Tuberculosis
• Tetanus, whooping cough, diphtheria
• Wound infections

How bacteria spread

• Through the air (coughs, sneezes)
• Contaminated food or water
• Direct contact with infected people or animals
• Sexual contact
• Insect bites
• Wounds, cuts, surgery
• Contaminated medical devices

Symptoms

Vary hugely depending on where the infection is:

• Fever, chills
• Pain, swelling, redness at the site
• Pus or discharge
• Fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea (for gut infections)
• Cough, breathlessness (for lung infections)
• Severe infection: confusion, rapid breathing, very low blood pressure — sepsis

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis uses clinical assessment plus tests specific to the site (swabs, blood tests, imaging). Treatment is with antibiotics — the choice depends on the bacterium and its sensitivity pattern. It's important to:

• Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed — complete the full course even if you feel better
• Not use antibiotics for viral infections (colds, most sore throats, flu)
• Not share antibiotics or use leftover ones
• Not buy antibiotics without a prescription

Antibiotic resistance is a major concern in India — meaning many common bacteria are becoming harder to treat. Responsible use of antibiotics protects you and everyone else.

Prevention

• Wash hands regularly with soap
• Food safety — cook thoroughly, avoid unsafe water
• Vaccinations — against tetanus, pneumococcus, meningococcus, pertussis, diphtheria, typhoid, TB (BCG)
• Treat wounds promptly; keep them clean
• Safe sexual practices
• Manage chronic conditions well (diabetes in particular increases infection risk)