Here are 10 bacterial infections that can be deadly if left untreated:
Tuberculosis (TB): TB is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and primarily affects the lungs. If left untreated, it can spread to other organs and can be fatal.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA): MRSA is a strain of Staphylococcus aureus that is resistant to many antibiotics. It can cause serious infections, such as pneumonia and sepsis, and can be fatal.
Streptococcus pneumoniae: Pneumococcal disease is caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and can lead to serious infections, such as pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis. It can be fatal, particularly in young children and the elderly.
Neisseria meningitidis: Meningococcal disease is caused by Neisseria meningitidis and can lead to meningitis and sepsis. It can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Clostridioides difficile (C. diff): C. diff is a bacteria that can cause severe diarrhea and colitis. It is particularly dangerous in people who are taking antibiotics, and can be fatal in severe cases.
Vibrio cholerae: Cholera is caused by Vibrio cholerae and can cause severe dehydration and diarrhea. It can be fatal if left untreated.
Escherichia coli (E. coli): E. coli can cause a range of illnesses, including urinary tract infections, gastroenteritis, and sepsis. Certain strains of E. coli, such as E. coli O157:H7, can be particularly dangerous and can cause kidney failure and even death.
Salmonella: Salmonella can cause food poisoning, which can be fatal in some cases. It can also lead to sepsis in people with weakened immune systems.
Legionella pneumophila: Legionnaires' disease is caused by Legionella pneumophila and can lead to pneumonia and sepsis. It can be fatal in some cases.
Mycobacterium leprae: Leprosy is caused by Mycobacterium leprae and can cause skin lesions, nerve damage, and other complications. It can be fatal in severe cases.
