Discuss zoonosis diseases and give details on any two in follow order: causes, mode of transmission, signs and symptoms, prevention methods and treatment
Zoonotic diseases are illnesses that can be transmitted between animals and humans. These diseases are caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi that can be passed between animals and humans. There are various ways in which zoonotic diseases can be transmitted, including direct contact with infected animals, consuming contaminated food or water, inhalation of contaminated particles, and through insect vectors such as ticks and mosquitoes.
One common zoonotic disease is Rabies.
1. Rabies:
- Causes: Rabies is caused by the rabies virus which is typically transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, usually through a bite or scratch.
- Mode of Transmission: The rabies virus is commonly transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, with dogs being the most common source of transmission to humans.
- Signs and Symptoms: Symptoms of rabies in humans include fever, headache, confusion, hallucinations, difficulty swallowing, excessive saliva production, and fear of water (hydrophobia).
- Prevention Methods: Prevention of rabies involves vaccinating domestic animals, avoiding contact with wild or stray animals, and seeking medical attention immediately following a potential exposure to the virus.
- Treatment: Once symptoms of rabies manifest, the disease is almost always fatal. However, immediate treatment following exposure to the virus through rabies vaccination can prevent the disease from progressing.
Another notable zoonotic disease is Lyme disease.
2. Lyme Disease:
- Causes: Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks.
- Mode of Transmission: Black-legged ticks, commonly known as deer ticks, can transmit the bacteria that cause Lyme disease when they attach to a human host and feed on their blood.
- Signs and Symptoms: Symptoms of Lyme disease include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic "bull's eye" rash at the site of the tick bite. If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to severe joint pain, heart palpitations, and neurological issues.
- Prevention Methods: Prevention of Lyme disease involves avoiding tick-infested areas, wearing protective clothing when outdoors, using insect repellent, conducting tick checks after spending time outdoors, and removing attached ticks promptly and properly.
- Treatment: Lyme disease is treatable with antibiotics if caught early. However, if left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to chronic symptoms that may require extended antibiotic treatment.
In conclusion, zoonotic diseases pose a significant risk to human health and it is important to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of transmission. Vaccination of animals, practicing good hygiene, avoiding contact with wild animals, and using insect repellent can all help to prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases. It is essential to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect you have been exposed to a zoonotic disease to receive timely treatment.