Infections and immune system

The immune system is made up of a collection of diverse cells with various abilities. Together, they protect the organism from most germs. If the immune systems fails, the body gets sick. If it makes a mistake and fights the wrong enemy, illnesses such as allergies can occur. Sometimes, it even attacks the body’s own cells and causes autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Infections and immune system from A to Z

Popular in Infections and immune system

  • Photo of a girl crying

    Rubella (German measles)

    Rubella usually goes unnoticed or only causes mild cold-like symptoms. Later, a pink or red spotty skin rash might develop. If a woman has rubella ea...

  • Photo of a girl being vaccinated

    Measles

    Measles is caused by viruses and is very contagious – both in children and adults. The typical signs of measles are a light red rash and flu-like sym...

  • Acute bronchitis

    Acute bronchitis

    In acute bronchitis, the lower airways (bronchi) are temporarily inflamed. The cough is usually dry at first. Later on, it may develop into a phlegmy...

  • Photo of a boy being examined by a doctor

    Mumps

    Mumps is a viral infection that has become rare since the introduction of a routine vaccination. It is usually spread through tiny droplets of spit t...

  • Cold sores

    Cold sores

    Cold sores lead to the formation of painful blisters around the lips, typically only on one side of the mouth. People who have had a cold sore in the...

  • Tick bites

    Tick bites

    Although ticks can carry and spread disease, tick bites usually don't cause any health problems. You're much less likely to develop tick-borne enceph...