5 Serious Infections Often Caught in Hospital

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An hospitalized elderly patient - Image Copyrights by: Jess Pohlman

Whenever you get sick and require medical attention, a trip to the hospital may be in order. Whether it’s something minor that can be treated within an hour, or you need to stay over, there is always the possibility that you could come down with an infection while you are there.

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Even though there are tons of precautionary measures medical professionals take to keep patients safe while in hospital, being in close proximity to those who are ill will inevitably increase your chances of getting an infection. With that in mind, here are five serious infections commonly caught in hospital.

COVID-19

One of the most prevalent and transmissible diseases that has dominated the United States and the world over the last 12 months is COVID-19. With over 29 million cases and 527,000 deaths in the US alone, many of those infected are treated in hospital, which instantly puts other non-COVID patients at risk. While hospitals follow rigorous protocols to keep patients safe, sneeze guards have been installed in between patients for an extra layer of protection. 

Pneumonia 

Another common infection that patients can pick up while in hospital is pneumonia. This causes an inflammation of the lungs with common symptoms including difficulty breathing, a cough, and a high temperature. Pneumonia is normally caused by a bacterial infection, so if you fall ill and experience swelling, you must seek urgent medical assistance. 

MRSA

MRSA is a kind of bacteria that is resistant to commonly used antibiotics, meaning it’s much more difficult to treat when compared to other bacterial infections. MRSA infections tend to infect individuals staying in hospital and can be incredibly serious if not diagnosed and treated quickly. Thankfully, there are antibiotics that work against MRSA. MRSA infections can be passed by touching somebody who has it, as well as sharing clothes, towels, and sheets, or touching objects or surfaces that harbor the bacteria. 

Urinary Tract Infection

Another infection you can catch in hospital is a UTI (urinary tract infection). This is an infection of the bladder, kidneys, or tubes that are connected to them. There are numerous symptoms associated with a UTI that you must look out for, including a burning sensation when urinating, blood in your pee, and a fever. 

Gastrointestinal Illness 

A gastrointestinal illness is linked to the digestive system and can affect numerous areas of the body, including the stomach, intestines, and throat. Viral gastroenteritis in particular can be caught by ingesting food or water that is contaminated. If you are healthy and fit, you should recover from this illness quickly and without any problems. However, for those who have underlying health conditions, the road to recovery may be much longer. Gastrointestinal illness and disease can cause all kinds of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and a high temperature. 

If you catch an infection that you’re sure was caught in hospital, you must get in touch with a lawyer who can represent your case. No matter what, don’t let any of the above put you off seeking medical assistance.