Understanding Common Infectious Diseases and Their Management

Diarrheal Diseases

Diarrheal diseases are among the most serious health problems worldwide. Key diseases in this category include cholera, dysentery, and salmonellosis. These are caused by organisms that reside in the intestines of infected individuals, sometimes without causing apparent symptoms. Regardless of whether the person exhibits symptoms, their feces contain large amounts of pathogenic microorganisms.

The disease spreads via the digestive tract through the consumption of contaminated food or drink. Contamination can occur directly or indirectly, such as through flies, or via contact with the hands or skin of individuals living without proper sanitation. Intense diarrhea is often accompanied by vomiting, leading to significant loss of water and mineral salts, and consequently, dehydration. The lost water and salts must be replenished orally, subcutaneously, or intravenously. Otherwise, death can occur.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly contagious chronic disease that primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other organs. It is caused by bacteria of the species Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It travels in droplets of saliva or mucus expelled by infected patients and invades the body through inhalation.

The bacteria infects lung cells and those of other organs, sometimes remaining dormant and causing few symptoms for months or even years. However, during this time, the patient's saliva contains infectious bacteria and can infect others when they cough, sneeze, talk, or spit.

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome)

AIDS is an infection caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This virus destroys and infects many cell types, particularly CD4 T lymphocytes, which are crucial cells that activate immune system function. HIV is primarily transmitted through:

• Blood contact
• Unprotected sexual intercourse
• From mother to child during childbirth

Influenza (The Flu)

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses, of which many different variants exist. It is spread by inhalation or ingestion of contaminated saliva or other respiratory secretions containing the virus.

The main symptoms of influenza include: fever, sore throat, muscle pain, headache, malaise, and cough. Since this is a viral disease, antibiotics are not effective against it unless a secondary bacterial infection has developed. The best approach to combat influenza is prevention.

Passive Immunization Vaccines

These preparations contain pre-formed antibodies against a specific disease agent. The protection provided is immediate but short-lived.

Active Immunization Vaccines

These preparations contain killed or attenuated (weakened) microorganisms, prompting the body to produce its own antibodies against the disease-causing agent. The protection provided takes a few days to become effective but is long-term (lasting several years).

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are substances produced by microorganisms that have the ability to kill or inhibit the growth of other microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, fungi). It is crucial to note that antibiotics are not effective against viruses.