Infectious diseases can be spread from one person to another either directly or indirectly. Anyone can get them. Sometimes referred to as communicable diseases, they are most commonly caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites.

Your provider can treat most common infections. However, you may be referred to an infectious disease specialist for a complex infection that’s hard to diagnose, is accompanied by a persistent high fever or is not responding to treatment. Infectious disease specialists are experts in infections of the sinuses, heart, brain, lungs, urinary tract, bowel, bones and pelvic organs. Some have additional expertise in treating specific diseases or infections. They have added insight into the use of antibiotics and have training in immunology (how the body fights infection), epidemiology (how infections spread) and infection control.