Human Communicable Diseases

  • Human communicable diseases, also known as infectious or contagious diseases, are caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi.

  • These diseases can spread from person to person through various methods, including direct contact, airborne droplets, contaminated objects or surfaces, and vectors like mosquitoes or ticks.

  • Examples of communicable diseases caused by bacteria include tuberculosis and cholera. Bacterial infections are usually treated using antibiotics but many bacteria are becoming resistant to these treatments.

  • Viruses cause diseases such as influenza and HIV. Viral infections often have to run their course as antibiotics, which kill bacteria, are ineffective against viruses.

  • Fungi can also cause communicable diseases such as athlete’s foot and ringworm. These infections can typically be treated with antifungal creams or medications.

  • Parasites cause diseases such as malaria and tapeworm infection. Parasitic diseases are commonly treated with antiparasitic drugs.

  • Vaccinations are an effective way to prevent the spread of communicable diseases. They prepare the body’s immune system to fight off specific pathogens.

  • Hygiene practices like washing hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick individuals also reduce the risk of spreading or catching communicable diseases.

  • Understand the role of the immune system in defense against disease. It prevents or limits the entry of pathogens through barriers like the skin, and also fights off invading pathogens through processes like phagocytosis.

  • The effectiveness of the immune response can be affected by factors such as age, stress, and existing illness. People with weaker immune systems - like babies, the elderly, those with HIV/AIDS - are generally more susceptible to communicable diseases.

  • Epidemiological studies are important for tracking the spread of disease and the effectiveness of public health interventions. These studies use statistical analysis to understand disease spread and make predictions, which can help guide future prevention and treatment strategies.