Bacterial & Fungal Infections

Bacterial & Fungal Infections Overview

Determining whether a bacteria or a fungus causes an infection is crucial to determining the most effective treatment. Many of these infections require specialized care, especially when they are severe, recurrent or resistant to standard treatments. At Hattiesburg Clinic, our infectious disease specialists are equipped to quickly and accurately diagnose these infections using advanced diagnostic tools. This allows us to promptly provide tailored treatment plans for a wide range of bacterial and fungal infections, ensuring the most effective and fastest approach to recovery.

How to Tell the Difference Between Bacterial and Fungal Infections

In broad terms, bacterial infections often cause acute inflammation, pus or swelling, while fungal infections develop slowly and cause symptoms like a persistent cough, itchy rash or thickened skin. But sometimes these symptoms can overlap, making it difficult to tell the cause of the infection without the specialized diagnostic tools of Hattiesburg Clinic.

A precise diagnosis is critical to providing the right treatment for the exact pathogen and avoiding ineffective treatments. Our advanced diagnostic tools include blood cultures, tissue biopsies or molecular tests to detect the genetic material of bacteria or fungi.

We ensure your treatment not only treats the specific infection but also considers any underlying health conditions or medications you may be taking. Some bacterial and fungal infections are resistant to common antibiotics; we are experts in managing any drug-resistant infections working with you to provide follow-up care and prevent recurrence.

Recurrent Infections

Recurrent infections can be frustrating and challenging, often signaling an underlying immune issue or the presence of drug-resistant bacteria or fungi. Our in-depth understanding of infectious diseases allows the doctors at Hattiesburg Clinic to find the underlying cause of your recurrent infection and develop a customized treatment plan. We provide targeted treatments and preventive care to break the cycle of recurring infections.

Common Bacterial Infections We Treat

Staphylococcus aureus, also known as staph infections including MRSA

Streptococcal infections including strep throat and cellulitis

E. coli which can cause urinary tract infections and gastrointestinal illness

C. difficile (C diff), often linked to heavy antibiotic usage

Bacterial Pneumonia such as those caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae

Common Fungal Infections We Treat

Candida infections, also known as yeast infections in the mouth, throat or genitals

Aspergillus, a fungus causing lung infections

Histoplasmosis, a respiratory infection often linked to bird or bat droppings

Ringworm, a common fungal skin infection

Fungal nail infections, which can cause thick, discolored nails

When to Seek Help

If you are experiencing symptoms of a bacterial or fungal infection, such as persistent fever, skin changes or unexplained pain, please seek medical attention. We see patients by referral from your primary or urgent care doctor. Early and accurate diagnosis, combined with a comprehensive treatment plan can prevent complications and promote faster recovery from bacterial and fungal infections.