Viral infections can be more serious for young children and older adults. Our adult and pediatric infectious disease specialists work together to provide care for everyone in your family.

Doctors at our Infectious Diseases Clinic provide care for residents throughout Northern California. Other doctors refer their patients to us for our expertise in treating viral infections.

Our doctors are active in infectious disease clinical research. We’re working to improve the prevention and management of viral infections.

The varicella-zoster virus causes chickenpox (varicella). This itchy, blister-like rash is highly contagious and tends to affect children. Adults may develop a condition called shingles (herpes zoster). Vaccines can prevent both illnesses.

Influenza virus types A and B cause flu. This contagious illness causes fever, body aches, cough, sore throat and congestion. Some people develop pneumonia. The flu vaccine lowers your risk.

Herpes simplex viruses (HSV) cause sores and skin infections. HSV-1 spreads in saliva. It causes sores on your mouth and face (oral herpes). HSV-2 (genital herpes) is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). The virus spreads through body fluids.

HPV is the most common STI. It causes genital warts and increases your risk for cervical cancer and other cancers. The virus spreads through vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who’s infected. The HPV vaccine protects against this virus.

Norovirus infections are the top cause of foodborne illnesses in the U.S. These contagious viruses cause diarrhea and vomiting. The virus spreads through contaminated foods, drinks and surfaces, as well as contact with an infected person.

The varicella-zoster virus causes those younger than 5 and older than 65 are more at risk for certain viral infections. (varicella). This itchy, blister-like rash is highly contagious and tends to affect children. Adults may develop a condition called shingles (herpes zoster). Vaccines can prevent both illnesses.

Conditions, such as diabetes, asthma and respiratory illnesses, make you more prone to viruses and infections.

Infants and young children who aren’t fully vaccinated, as well as those who don’t get certain vaccines, are more likely to get certain viral infections.

Having unprotected sex or sex with multiple partners puts you at risk for herpes viruses.

Autoimmune diseases, HIV/AIDS, cancer treatments and other illnesses and therapies can weaken your immune system. As a result, your body has a harder time fighting viruses.