The HPA Centre for Infections (CfI) carries out a broad spectrum of work relating to prevention of infectious disease.
The remit of the Centre includes infectious disease surveillance, providing specialist and reference microbiology and microbial epidemiology, co-ordinating the investigation and cause of national and uncommon outbreaks, helping advise government on the risks posed by various infections and responding to international health alerts.
Swine Influenza »
Swine flu is a respiratory illness caused by the type A flu (H1N1) virus. The latest outbreaks in countries around the world have been caused by a new version (strain) of the virus.
Transmission of this new virus is thought to occur in the same way as seasonal flu. The infection can be effectively treated with antiviral medication. Most reported cases outside of Mexico have been mild and people have recovered fully after treatment.
Healthcare Associated Infections »
Healthcare associated infections are infections that are acquired in hospitals or as a result of healthcare interventions. There are a number of factors that can increase the risk of acquiring an infection, but high standards of infection control practice minimise the risk of occurrence.
Norovirus »
Norovirus is the most common cause of infectious gastroenteritis in England and Wales. Although relatively mild, norovirus illness can occur at any age because immunity to it is not long-lasting.
Zoonoses »
Zoonoses are infections that are transmissible between animals and humans. They show a wide range of clinical and epidemiological features and the most serious are notifiable to national surveillance centres. Causative organisms include viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa and parasites.
Further information