What is an Infectious Disease Specialist?

About Infectious Disease Specialists

Infectious Disease physicians focus on the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses caused by bacteria or germs. Family Doctors / General Practitioners may refer patients to an Infectious Disease specialist if they require extensive care for high-risk infection.

Infectious Disease doctors provide treatment from diagnosis through to follow-up to ensure that the disease has been fully treated and there is no risk of spread or recurrence. They evaluate and assess medical records, including X-rays and blood tests to identify the type and extent of infection as well as conduct physical examinations to help further pinpoint the cause of the infection.

Some types of infectious diseases include the common cold, influenza, sexually transmitted diseases (STD), HIV/AIDS, Human Papillomavirus (HPV,) food poisoning, pneumonia, Measles, Ringworm, and Rubella.

Treatments either administered or prescribed by an Infectious Disease specialist can include immunizations, antibiotics, and even surgery depending on the severity or spread of the infection.

Infectious Disease specialists also work in conjunction with other medical specialists including combined treatments with a Pathologist, Emergency Medicine Doctors, Occupational Therapists, and Addiction Medicine Specialists.

Useful Resources

Canada

Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada

British Columbia

Alberta

Saskatchewan

Manitoba

Ontario

Quebec

Newfoundland and Labrador

New Brunswick