Infectious disease - Update on treatment of pneumonia, influenza, and urinary tract infections

Older persons are at increased risk for Infection because of decreased phys iologic reserves, acute and chronic comorbidities, time spent in hospitals or nursing homes, and high exposure to invasive procedures in those setting s. Management of infection in older persons is complicated by several facto rs, including microbial resistance and the infrequency or absence of common infection signs and symptoms. Among the most common infections in older po pulations are community-acquired pneumonia, influenza, and urinary tract in fection. Vigilance, early diagnosis, and strategic use of antibacterial or antiviral agents are key to effective patient management.