Communicable diseases
Communicable diseases, also known as infectious diseases or transmissible diseases, are illnesses caused by pathogens and can be spread from one individual to another. They are a significant cause of illness and death worldwide, particularly in developing countries.
Definition[edit | edit source]
A communicable disease is a disease that can be transmitted from one person to another or from an animal to a person. The transmission of these diseases can occur through physical contact, through contaminated food or water, or through the air.
Types of Communicable Diseases[edit | edit source]
There are several types of communicable diseases, including:
- Viral diseases: These are caused by viruses. Examples include influenza, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis.
- Bacterial diseases: These are caused by bacteria. Examples include tuberculosis, cholera, and syphilis.
- Parasitic diseases: These are caused by parasites. Examples include malaria, giardiasis, and toxoplasmosis.
- Fungal diseases: These are caused by fungi. Examples include ringworm, athlete's foot, and candidiasis.
Transmission[edit | edit source]
Communicable diseases can be transmitted in several ways:
- Direct contact: This includes person-to-person contact, animal-to-person contact, and mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy or childbirth.
- Indirect contact: This includes contact with an object or surface that has been contaminated by a person or animal with the disease.
- Airborne transmission: This occurs when pathogens are carried in the air and inhaled by a person.
- Vector-borne transmission: This occurs when a vector, such as a mosquito or tick, carries the pathogen from one host to another.
Prevention and Control[edit | edit source]
Prevention and control of communicable diseases involve a combination of strategies, including:
- Vaccination: Vaccines stimulate the immune system to recognize and fight specific pathogens.
- Hygiene: Regular handwashing, safe food handling, and safe sex practices can prevent the spread of many communicable diseases.
- Quarantine and isolation: These are used to prevent the spread of communicable diseases from infected individuals to others.
- Pest control: This can prevent vector-borne diseases.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
