Introduction
Infectious diseases are a significant public health concern globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that infectious diseases are one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Understanding what they are, how they spread, and how to protect yourself and others is critical. In this article, we will explore infectious diseases’ basics, including what they are, how they spread, their history, and precautions you can take to avoid transmission.
Overview of Infectious Diseases
Infectious diseases are disorders caused by organisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. These organisms might enter into the body through skin, respiratory, oral, or urogenital mucosal surfaces and replicate, leading to infections. Certain infectious diseases can also get transmitted from animal to human, termed “zoonotic diseases.”
The easiest way of spreading of infectious diseases between people is through contact, including touching, kissing, or sexual contact. Additionally, these microbes can spread through the air whenever an infected person talks, sneezes, or coughs. However, some infectious diseases require specialized ways of transmission.
The most common infectious diseases include tuberculosis (TB), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), influenza, measles, malaria, and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV-2) coronavirus (COVID 19). Each of these diseases has unique indications and transmission modes. In addition, infectious diseases can significantly impact the global population, including causing premature deaths, disability, and strengthening poverty.
History of Infectious Diseases
Infectious diseases have coexisted with humanity for centuries, thus contributing to significant historical episodes. The bubonic plague, also known as the black death, killed millions of people during the 14th century. Later, in the 19th century, scientists discovered vaccines for several infectious diseases, including smallpox, yellow fever, and measles.
The 20th century witnessed enduring efforts and notable advances towards understanding the physical characteristics of numerous infectious diseases. Scientists have managed to synthesize antibiotics as an effective remedy for bacterial infections. Vaccination programs for polio, diphtheria, and pertussis have decreased the morbidity, mortality, and overall incidence of these infectious diseases. Nonetheless, many challenging infectious diseases persist, including malaria, HIV, and ebola.
Emerging Infectious Diseases
Infectious diseases continually emerge as new viruses and microbes evolve or jump from animals to humans. For instance, the zika virus outbreak in 2015-2016, which arose from mosquito bites in Brazil, exhibited widespread safety concerns for pregnant women and newborns.
The latest outbreak, the COVID-19 pandemic, illustrates the potential rapid transmission of newer viruses and illnesses globally. The coronavirus pandemic is commonly transmitted from respiratory contact, such as when someone is coughing, talking, sneezing, singing, etc. The disease has affected all corners of the globe, prompting significant efforts to prevent its transmission.
Advances in biotechnology and microbiology have seen progress in surveillance and disease management. Genomic sequencing can recognize certain pathogens and their source of transmission. These findings have allowed scientists to fast track the development of vaccines and treatments for a disease.
Preventing the Spread of Infectious Diseases
To protect yourself from infectious diseases, it’s essential to practice good hygiene habits. Here are some of the measures you can take:
- Regular and thorough hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you don’t have access to soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol
- Avoid contact with sick people, including hugging, kissing, and shaking hands
- Clean and sanitize surfaces you touch frequently regularly
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when you cough or sneeze
- Maintain social distancing by staying at least six feet away from people who are sick
- Stay at home or consult a physician if you’re feeling unwell.
Additionally, vaccination is an integral part of infectious disease control. Vaccinations work by introducing weak or dead organisms or a component of the organism (antigen) into the body. Vaccines trigger an immune response that safeguard the body against the actual pathogen’s attack. The WHO recommends vaccines for certain diseases like measles, polio, and diphtheria.
Impact of Infectious Diseases on Global Health
Infectious diseases can impact health and wellbeing in economic and social ways. An outbreak of infectious disease implies that people will be unwell and unable to work, leading to economic loss. Families also suffer the loss of their loved ones. In communities where there is poor sanitation, there is an increase in morbidity, which leads to poverty.
The impact of infectious diseases is not experienced without notice globally. The effects are particularly pronounced in developing nations. International organizations play a necessary role in data gathering, conducting research, and implementing disease control programs. One such organization is the WHO, which mobilizes resources and international cooperation to mitigate disease outbreaks; furthermore, they develop policies, provide member training, and promote research.
Conclusion
Infectious diseases are a persistent and significant public health concern globally. Understanding what they are, how they spread, and the prevention and control measures we can undertake is vital in fighting infections. With various infectious diseases that exist today and the potential new ones that may emerge, it is critical to remain informed and engage in preventive measures. By doing so, we promote our overall wellbeing and that of the communities we live in.
