Final answer:
Infectious diseases differ from non-infectious diseases primarily in their mode of transmission, prevention strategies, and specific treatments, with some differences in symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Infectious diseases differ from non-infectious diseases in terms of mode of transmission, treatment, prevention, and sometimes in their symptoms. Infectious diseases are caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. They can be transmitted through various routes including direct contact, airborne droplets, sexual contact, and vectors. On the other hand, non-infectious diseases are typically caused by a combination of genetic, physiological, environmental, and behavioral factors. Examples of non-infectious diseases include diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.
Prevention of infectious diseases often involves hygiene measures, vaccinations, and avoiding contact with infected individuals, while non-infectious diseases can be prevented through lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and exercise, and sometimes genetic counseling or environmental adjustments. Treatment for infectious diseases usually includes antimicrobial medications like antibiotics or antivirals, whereas non-infectious diseases are treated with a varied approach of medication, therapy, surgery, or lifestyle alterations depending on the condition.