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Infectious diseases in sports
1UCLA School of Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90509, USA. kbeck@jps.net
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|July 26, 2000
Summary
Sports participation is rising, increasing the risk of infectious diseases. This article covers the diagnosis, prevention, and management of sports-related infections, including skin, waterborne, viral, and bloodborne pathogens, plus vaccinations.
Area of Science:
- Sports medicine
- Infectious diseases
Background:
- Increasing participation in sports globally.
- Sports environments can facilitate infectious disease transmission.
- Certain infections are more prevalent or severe in athletes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review infectious diseases relevant to sports participation.
- To outline diagnostic, preventive, and management strategies for these infections.
- To cover common categories of sports-related infections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of infectious diseases in sports.
- Categorization of infections by transmission route (skin, water, blood) and type (viral).
- Discussion of vaccination as a preventive measure.
Main Results:
- Identified common sports-related infections including skin/soft tissue, waterborne, and viral infections.
- Highlighted infections with increased incidence or impact in athletic settings.
- Emphasized the importance of diagnosis, prevention, and management strategies.
Conclusions:
- Athletes face unique infectious disease risks.
- Comprehensive management strategies are crucial for athlete health.
- Vaccinations play a key role in preventing certain infections in sports.
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