The basics
What's it like to be an infectious disease specialist?
Overview
An infectious disease specialist is an expert in diseases such as HIV and hepatitis. They examine patients' medical records to try and identify the cause of an infection and the best course of treatment for their patient. Infectious disease specialists have played a critical role in preventing or controlling outbreaks of polio, smallpox, measles, and many more diseases. These doctors also educate the public on different viruses and ultimately try to stop the spread.
Requirements
Infectious disease specialists typically have a college bachelor’s degree, followed by the completion of four years in medical school. They then complete a three year residency in internal medicine to gain experience in the profession. Specialists continue in a two year infectious disease fellowship for further training and then become board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine through a certification exam before working.
What Can High Schoolers Do?
- Take biology and chemistry courses
- Intern at a hospital near you
- Learn about previous diseases and how they were contained
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