Tartunnat

Tartunnat are illnesses caused by pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites that invade a host and trigger disease. In Finnish public health, tartunta refers both to acquiring an infection and to the chain of transmission within a community.

Causes include bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Common categories are respiratory infections (influenza, the common cold), gastrointestinal infections, sexually transmitted infections and bloodborne infections. Severity ranges from mild to life‑threatening, depending on the pathogen and host factors.

Tartunnat spread by direct contact, droplets, airborne particles in enclosed spaces, contaminated surfaces, bodily fluids, or vectors such as mosquitoes. Transmission dynamics depend on the pathogen, host susceptibility, and environmental conditions; incubation periods vary widely.

Clinical presentation varies by organism and site. Some infections resolve without treatment; others require antibiotics, antivirals or antiparasitic drugs. Antimicrobial resistance is a growing concern. Diagnosis commonly relies on laboratory tests and clinical assessment.

Prevention includes vaccination where available, good hygiene, safe food and water, ventilation, and protective measures during outbreaks. Public health surveillance and prompt reporting help detect outbreaks and coordinate control efforts.

Historically, tartunnat have shaped societies through pandemics and epidemics. Ongoing research and surveillance seek to reduce morbidity, mortality and economic impact.

In Finnish, tartunta is used for an infection event; tartunnat is the plural. Related terms include infektiot (infections) and tartuntaketju (transmission chain).