Infectious Diseases

Department of Medicine

At Kern Medical, our providers specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases and are designed to meet the needs of patients in both the hospital and in an outpatient setting.

Infectious diseases are disorders caused by organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. Many organisms live in and on our bodies. They usually pose no harm and are often even helpful, but in some cases, certain organisms may cause disease.

Some of these diseases can pass from human to human, while others are transmitted by bites through insects or animals, and there are others that are caused by inhaled spores. Infectious diseases may also be acquired by eating contaminated food or water, or by exposure to organisms in the environment.

Many, but not all, infectious diseases can be prevented by vaccines. Frequent and thorough handwashing also may protect you from some types of infectious diseases.