Category Infectious Disease

Rubella

Acknowledgment The authors acknowledge Alison Margaret Kesson for her contributions as author of a prior version of this chapter. Abstract Rubella (German measles), a leading cause of vaccine-preventable birth defects, is an acute viral infection that can affect people of…

Mumps

Acknowledgment The authors acknowledge the work of Alison Margaret Kesson on the previous edition chapter. Abstract Mumps is an acute, highly contagious systemic viral infection and the leading cause of parotitis worldwide. The most common clinical manifestation is nonsuppurative inflammation…

Measles

Abstract Measles (rubeola) is an extremely contagious, prolonged respiratory and systemic viral illness characterized by high fever, an erythematous maculopapular rash, cough, coryza, and conjunctivitis. Measles infects the immune system and leads to continued susceptibility to other pathogens long after…

Rotavirus Infection

Acknowledgment The author acknowledges S. Michael Marcy and Susan Partridge for their contribution to the previous edition chapter. Abstract Rotavirus infections are the most common cause of severe dehydrating gastroenteritis worldwide. In developing countries, virtually all children have been infected…

Influenza

Abstract Influenza is a viral infection characterized by abrupt onset of fever, chills, myalgias, and respiratory symptoms such as cough, sore throat, and rhinitis. Influenza viruses, types A and B, cause annual epidemics worldwide leading to a substantial morbidity and…