What is HTLV-1?Human T-Lymphotropic Virus Type 1 (HTLV-1) is a retrovirus that infects human white blood cells. It can cause disease of the nervous sy
What is pelvic inflammatory disease?Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the upper (internal) female reproductive organs. It usually b
What is toxic shock syndrome?Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare, but serious illness that can often be life-threatening. TSS develops suddenly after
If you think you have TSS, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department right away.
What causes TSS?TSS is caused by toxins made by some types of bacteria. The 2 bacteria that make toxins that can cause TSS are:Staphylococcus aureus (
What is nitrate?Nitrate (NO3-) is a naturally occurring ion in the environment. It is the product of oxidation of nitrogen, which is commonly found in
Is water from my well safe to drink?There are 2 categories of wells for drinking water: those that service drinking water supply systems under permit
What are head lice?Head lice are tiny, sesame seed-sized, greyish-brown, wingless insects that live on the scalp, feeding on blood. They lay eggs (nit
What is rabies?Rabies is a very serious and almost always fatal disease caused by a rabies virus. The virus infects the brain and nervous system. It s
What is gonorrhea?Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria. In women, the infection may occur in the opening of the uter
What is urethritis?Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra. The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the bod
What is molluscum contagiosum?Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection that affects the outer layer of the skin. The virus causes small, smooth bump
