STAGES OF INFECTIOUS PROCESS

Incubation period - extends from the entry of microorganism into the body to the
onset of signs and symptoms.
Prodromal period - extends from the onset of non-specific signs and symptoms to the
appearance of specific signs and symptoms.
Illness period - specific signs and symptoms develop and become evident.
Convalescent period - signs and symptoms start to abate until the client returns to
normal state of health.

THE CHAIN OF INFECTION

1. Etiologic agent - these may be bacteria, virus, or parasites.
2. Reservoir - these may be humans, animals or plants
3. Portal of exit from reservoir
⮚ Respiratory tract: droplets, sputum
⮚ Gastrointestinal tract: vomitus, feces, saliva, drainage tubes
⮚ Urinary tract: urine, urethral catheters
⮚ Reproductive tract: semen, vaginal discharge
⮚ Blood: open wound, needle puncture site
4. Mode of transmission
⮚ Contact transmission; direct or indirect contact
⮚ Droplet transmission
⮚ Vehicle transmission
⮚ Airborne transmission
⮚ Vectorborne transmission: biologic or microorganism
5. Portal of entry
6. Susceptible host

FACTORS INFLUENCING THE HOST SUSCEPTIBILITY

⮚ Intact skin and mucous membrane are the body’s first line of defense.
⮚ The normal ph levels of secretions and genito-urinary tract help ward off
microbial invasion.
⮚ The body’s WBC influence resistance to certain pathogens.
⮚ The age, sex, and race have been shown to influence susceptibility.
⮚ Immunization, (natural/acquired), acts to resist infection.
⮚ Fatigue, climate, general health status, presence of pre-existing illness, previous/
current treatments and some kinds of medications may play a part in the
susceptibility of a potential host.

TYPES OF IMMUNIZATION
1. Active immunization: natural and artificial
2. Passive immunization: natural and artificial