Infections and Immunity Quiz

Infections and Immunity

• Pathogens: Microorganisms causing infections (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites).
• Transmission Modes:
  • Direct contact: physical touch
  • Indirect contact: contaminated surfaces
  • Airborne transmission: droplets from coughs/sneezes
  • Vector-borne: carried by insects
• Innate Immunity: Body's first defense (skin, mucous membranes, inflammatory response, white blood cells).
• Adaptive Immunity: Specific, learned responses (T cells targeting infected cells, B cells producing antibodies).
• Memory Cells: Enable faster responses to future infections.
• Prevention: Vaccinations (weakened/inactive pathogens), hygiene (handwashing, sanitizing), healthy lifestyle.
• Common Infectious Diseases/Symptoms:
  • Cold/Flu: runny nose, fever, fatigue
  • Tuberculosis: persistent cough, weight loss, night sweats
  • HIV/AIDS: weakened immune system, opportunistic infections

Genetics and Health

• DNA Structure: Double helix composed of nucleotides, carrying genetic instructions.
• Genes: Specific DNA sequences coding for traits/functions.
• Mendelian Inheritance: Dominant/recessive traits passed through alleles (e.g., eye colour, cystic fibrosis).
• Polygenic Traits: Influenced by multiple genes (e.g., height, skin colour).
• Gene-Environment Interactions (Epigenetics): Environmental factors modifying gene expression without DNA changes. Examples include diet, stress, and toxins.
• Genetic Tests:
  • Diagnostic tests: Confirm/rule out genetic disorders.
  • Carrier screening: Check for gene-carrying conditions.
  • Predictive testing: Estimate likelihood of developing conditions.
• Ethical Considerations: Privacy, discrimination risks, informed consent.
• Personalized Medicine: Tailoring treatments using genetic info; example – pharmacogenomics.

Responsible Drug Use

• Types of Drugs:
  • Prescription medications: for specific medical conditions (e.g., antibiotics).
  • Over-the-counter medications: for minor ailments (e.g., pain relievers).
  • Illicit substances: illegal drugs with harmful effects.
• Proper Use: Understanding drug interactions (e.g., increased bleeding risk), managing side effects (drowsiness, nausea, allergies).
• Safe Storage/Disposal: Cool, dry place, away from children; follow guidelines for disposal via drug take-back programs.
• Signs of Drug Abuse/Addiction: Compulsive use, withdrawal symptoms, neglecting responsibilities.
• Health Consequences: Liver damage, cardiovascular issues, mental health problems.
• Responsible Management: Tracking medication, communicating with healthcare providers, understanding short-term/long-term effects.