Infection refers to illnesses caused by small living things/agents that we cannot see with the eye. Such agents can be bacteria, viruses, fungus, worms etc.

Infections can occur in any part of the body, not just the penis or vagina.

Common symptoms of infection may include;

1. Fever i.e. high body temperature
2. Weakness, body aches
3. Poor appetite
4. Other symptoms depend on the location of the infection. For instance, a person with chest infection may have cough, one with skin infection may have rash, another with vaginal infection may have vaginal itching or discharge

How does infection enter the body?

1. Through the food and water we take
2. From the air we breathe in
3. From contact with others e.g. from handshake, hug, sex
4. From poor hygiene
5. From the toilet
6. From contact with animal, animal wastes and through animal bite
7. From a mother to a child during pregnancy

What you can do

There is no single treatment that can take care of all infections. It is important to see a doctor and possibly do some tests to know the cause of a suspected infection.

How to prevent infections

1. Ensure proper hygiene; regularly wash your hand, body and clothing
2. Cook with clean water, and drink clean water
3. Ensure your foods are well prepared
4. Eat good food and reduce stress; these will improve your body’s ability to resist infection
5. Disinfect household equipment
6. Use of antiseptics