UNIT 7
Infectious Diseases
LESSON 3
Common Infectious Diseases
Common infectious diseases are infections that are frequently seen across different populations, regions, and age groups. They are caused by microbes such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites, and can be transmitted from person to person via different routes. Some of the most common infectious diseases are:
1. Influenza (the flu): A respiratory virus that spreads easily through contact with droplets from infected individuals. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
2. Tuberculosis (TB): Caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, TB mainly affects the lungs and can spread through the air from person to person. Symptoms include persistent cough, weight loss, and fatigue.
3. Hepatitis: A viral infection that affects the liver and can cause inflammation and damage. There are different types of hepatitis viruses, including hepatitis A, B, and C.
4. Malaria: A parasitic infection transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms.
5. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Infections spread thual contact, including gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and HIV/AIDS.
6. Common cold: A viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract, causing symptoms such as cough, congestion, and sore throat.
7. Skin infections: Caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, skin infections can lead to conditions like cellulitis, impetigo, and abscesses.
Understanding common infectious diseases and how they are transmitted is important for preventing their spread and controlling outbreaks. Measures like practicing good hygiene, getting vaccinated, and using barrier methods during sexual activity can help reduce the risk of contracting and transmitting these diseases.