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Bird flu: Risks and complication you need to know.

Bird flu: Risks and complication you need to know.

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Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is a virus that can infect not just birds but also people and other animals. The majority of the virus’s variants only affect birds.

The most prevalent strain of avian flu is H5N1. It can easily infect people and other animals who come into touch with a carrier and is fatal to birds. The World Health Organization reports that since H5N1 was initially identified in humans in 1997, over 60% of people who contracted the disease have died.

The virus is not known to pass from person to person at this time. However, some specialists are concerned that H5N1 could eventually threaten humans with a pandemic.

Health officials are concerned that if a bird flu virus mutates into a version that spreads more quickly from person to person, a global outbreak might happen. The development of vaccinations to help prevent the spread of avian flu is now underway.

How avian influenza virus is spread?

All avian influenza type A viruses are thought to be carried by water birds, such as wild ducks. Bird faeces act as a vehicle for the viruses to leave the bird’s intestines and enter the environment (poo). Bird flu might potentially spread from diseased migratory birds to any nation they travel to.

Wild birds don’t typically exhibit bird flu symptoms, but the H5N1 virus that is presently circulating has made some wild birds sick and even killed them. Domesticated species, including chickens and turkeys, are more frequently killed by the avian influenza virus.

The signs that can appear in birds vary depending on the species, but they can include vomiting, trouble breathing, a swelled head, and even death. The virus is excreted by ill birds in their feathers, mucus, saliva, and faeces.

Bird flu can infect people who come into close contact with sick birds. For instance, a person might touch a sick bird, get chicken faeces on their hands, and neglect to wash their hands before eating. The infected bird poop will subsequently be consumed by them. The most typical route for a human to contract avian flu is through this. Although it can persist in raw poultry flesh as well, the virus is killed by conventional cooking.

There is no proof that the H5N1 avian flu variant that is now circulating can be easily transmitted from person to person.

Symptoms of bird flu

If you suffer symptoms similar to the flu that are more severe than those of the flu, such as:

  • cough
  • diarrhoea
  • respiratory problems
  • fever (over 38°C or 100.4°F)
  • headache
  • muscular pain
  • malaise
  • clogged nose
  • unwell throat

Before you visit the doctor or hospital, you should let the personnel know if you have been exposed to the bird flu. By letting them know beforehand, they can take preventative measures to safeguard personnel and other patients before taking care of you.

What causes bird flu?

Despite the fact that there are other strains of bird flu, H5N1 was the first to infect people. In 1997, the first infection took place in Hong Kong. The handling of diseased chickens was connected to the outbreak.

Although H5N1 normally exists among wild waterfowl, it can spread quickly to farmed poultry. Humans can contract the disease by coming into contact with contaminated bird excrement, nasal secretions, or eye or mouth secretions.

The bird flu cannot be contracted by eating properly cooked poultry or eggs from sick birds, however runny eggs should never be served. When meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C), it is deemed safe.

Bird flu risk factors

H5N1 has the capacity to endure for long stretches of time. For up to 10 days, H5N1-infected birds continue to expel the virus in their faeces and saliva. The infection can spread by touching infected surfaces.

You may be more susceptible to getting H5N1 if you are:

  • a farmer of poultry
  • a visitor to the impacted areas
  • being exposed to diseased birds
  • one who consumes raw poultry or eggs
  • a medical professional treating infected individuals
  • a member of the sick person’s family

Complications of Bird flu

When afflicted with the avian flu, a person may experience serious health issues, such as:

  • Pneumonia
  • Red eye (conjunctivitis)
  • respiration difficulty
  • a kidney problem
  • Heart issues

Because so few people have contracted bird flu, even though it may kill more than half of those it infects, the number of fatalities is still modest. Since 1997, the World Health Organization has received reports of fewer than 500 bird flu fatalities.

The seasonal flu, on the other hand, is thought to be the sole cause of thousands of deaths annually in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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Lets discuss the risks and complications of Chickenpox.

Lets discuss the risks and complications of Chickenpox.

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What is chickenpox?

Chickenpox is a very contagious infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It mainly affects kids, but adults can get it, too. The telltale sign of chickenpox is a super-itchy skin rash with red blisters. Over the course of several days, the blisters pop and start to leak. Then they crust and scab over before finally healing.

Symptoms appear within 10 to 21 days after you’ve been in contact with someone who has the virus. Most people recover in about 2 weeks. Chickenpox is generally mild, especially in children. But in severe cases, the blisters can spread to your nose, mouth, eyes, and even genitals.

Multiple chickenpox infections are extremely uncommon. Additionally, cases have decreased since the mid-1990s, when the chickenpox vaccine was launched.

A child who has chickenpox can readily infect other kids with the illness. Due to widespread childhood vaccination, chickenpox is much less common today. Before the first chickenpox vaccine was authorised in the United States in 1995, practically everyone contracted the disease. There weren’t many complications.

How is chickenpox spread?

Any age child can contract chicken pox. Your youngster may seem well for one to three weeks after exposure to the chickenpox before developing symptoms. From the day before symptoms occur until around five days after a skin rash appears, children can spread the virus.

The following methods are:

  • interacting with a chickenpox-infected person
  • receiving airborne infection from a sick individual who sneezes or coughs.
  • obtaining bodily fluids from an infected child’s mouth, nose, or eyes.

Difference between smallpox and chickenpox

Both smallpox and chickenpox cause skin rashes, yet they are two distinct diseases. One reason is that smallpox is a far more deadly illness that can be fatal. They are brought on by many viruses.

Even while the two diseases both cause rashes, the rashes themselves appear differently and develop at different times. As opposed to the chickenpox rash, which appears in waves, smallpox pustules are identical to one another. The individual spots don’t all have the same appearance, and while some blister, others form scabs.

There is yet another significant distinction. Smallpox has been eradicated (wiped out) thanks to a large global vaccination campaign.

Symptoms of Chickenpox

The chickenpox rash, which is characterised by itchy blisters and typically lasts five to ten days, occurs 10 to 21 days following virus exposure. One to two days prior to the rash, there may also be additional symptoms and indicators, such as:

  • Fever
  • reduced appetite
  • Headache
  • fatigue as well as a general sick feeling (malaise)

The chickenpox rash progresses through three stages after it appears:

  • Papules, which are raised pink or red pimples that appear over several days
  • Vesicles are little, fluid-filled blisters that develop in a day or so before breaking and leaking.
  • The damaged blisters are covered in crusts and scabs, which take many additional days to cure.

You could experience all three stages of the rash—bumps, blisters, and scabbed lesions—at the same time since new bumps keep developing for several days. Before the rash shows, the virus can be transmitted to other persons for up to 48 hours, and it can still be transmitted until all broken blisters have crusted over.

In healthy children, the condition is typically not severe. Lesions may develop in the mouth, eyes, mucous membranes of the urethra, anus, and vagina, and the rash may cover the entire body in severe cases.

Who is at risk of developing the chicken pox?

Risk is lowered by prior active infection with the virus or immunisation. A mother’s immunity to the virus might be passed on to her newborn. From birth, immunity lasts roughly three months.

The virus can infect someone who hasn’t been exposed to it. Risk rises in any of the following circumstances:

  • recently interacted with a sick person.
  • younger than 12 years old.
  • an adult who shares a home with kids.
  • visited a school or child care centre.
  • your immune system has been damaged by your condition or drugs.

Possible complications of Chickenpox

Call your physician immediately if:

  • Your eyes start to develop a rash.
  • The rash is extremely heated, painful, and red (signs of a secondary bacterial infection).
  • Shortness of breath or dizziness accompany the rash.

When difficulties arise, they typically have an impact on:

  • infants
  • older people
  • those with compromised immune systems
  • expecting mothers

These people may also develop bacterial infections of the skin, joints, or bones or VZV pneumonia. Pregnant women who are exposed may give birth to infants who have birth abnormalities like:

  • bad growth
  • limited head size
  • eye issues
  • intelligence impairments

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Consequences of ignoring the vaccination of rotavirus.

Consequences of ignoring the vaccination of rotavirus.

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What Is Rotavirus?

Children under the age of five are especially susceptible to rotavirus infections. It spreads quickly and is caused by a virus that is simple to spread. Adults can get the infection, though it normally isn’t as serious as it is in youngsters, who tend to have it more frequently.

The following annual statistics for children aged 5 and under in the United States were caused by the infection prior to the introduction of the rotavirus vaccination in 2006, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

  • 400 000 paediatrician appointments
  • 70,000 to 55,000 hospitalisations
  • at least 200,000 trips to the emergency room
  • from 20 to 60 fatalities

When it comes to preventing serious rotavirus disease, the vaccine is more than 90% effective.

Medication is not used to treat rotavirus. In most cases, it gets better on its own over time. Dehydration, on the other hand, is a major worry. To avoid problems that could be life-threatening, it is crucial to know when to seek medical help.

Symptoms of rotavirus

Normally, two days after rotavirus exposure, an illness develops. Fever and vomiting are the initial symptoms, which are followed by watery diarrhoea that lasts three to seven days. Additionally, the infection may result in stomach ache.

A rotavirus infection in healthy people may not show any symptoms at all or only show mild ones.

  • Vomiting, fever, and stomach discomfort. These symptoms normally appear in the beginning of rotavirus and then subside.
  • After the first three symptoms have subsided, diarrhoea starts. The diarrhoea may persist for 5 to 7 days as the virus makes its way through your child’s body.

In the event that your child:

  • Lethargy
  • repeated vomiting
  • less thirst for fluids
  • stools that are dark, have blood or pus in them
  • Any fever in a baby under the age of six months
  • a child older than 6 months who has had a high temperature for more than 24 hours

Your youngster might not feel like eating or drinking due to all the vomiting and diarrhoea. They may become so dehydrated that it poses a serious risk to their lives. Dehydration is a risk factor for older persons, particularly those with additional illnesses or disorders.

If you experience any of these signs of dehydration, contact your doctor right away:

  • Anxiousness
  • Crying while not crying
  • Dry diapers or infrequent urination
  • Dizziness
  • throat and mouth are dry
  • extreme drowsiness
  • light skin
  • recessed eyes

Adults with rotavirus

Adults may also suffer certain rotavirus symptoms, including:

  • vomiting
  • acute exhaustion
  • an extreme fever
  • irritability
  • dehydration
  • abdomen ache

Many healthy individuals, however, only feel them to a lesser extent. Adults with rotavirus may even go weeks without showing any symptoms.

Rotavirus Causes and Risk Factors

When hands are not thoroughly cleansed after using the restroom or changing a diaper, rotavirus bacteria that are present in a person’s faeces (poop) can travel to other surfaces. Fecal-oral transmission occurs when these bacteria come into contact with a mouth.

Rotavirus can spread even in the absence of symptoms. Rotavirus can affect anyone, however it usually has an impact on:

  • Infants
  • little children
  • nearest relatives

Those who take care of children, such nannies or daycare providers. If your child has rotavirus, it can be found in their poop up to 10 days before their symptoms start to fade. Rotavirus can spread to your child’s hands during the time when they wipe their hands after using the restroom. They risk contaminating everything they touch if they don’t wash their hands, which include:

  • Markers and crayons
  • Food
  • surfaces like kitchen countertops and sinks
  • toys, including consoles and shared electronics like iPads
  • Utensils
  • Water

You risk contracting an infection if you contact your child’s unwashed hands or any other contaminated object before touching your mouth. Cleaning is essential. Rotavirus can survive for weeks on surfaces and objects.

Rotavirus vaccines

In 2006, the rotavirus vaccination was first made available. Before this, at least one episode of rotavirus infection in early children was typical. Rotavirus-related hospitalisations and fatalities have drastically decreased since the vaccine’s introduction.

Make sure your child receives the necessary vaccinations to help avoid rotavirus and its complications. There are two types of the vaccine:

  • Rotarix: two doses given to infants at 2 and 4 months
  • RotaTeq: 3 doses given at 2, 4, and 6 months of age

Both of these vaccinations are oral, which means they are given orally rather than intravenously. Adults and older children cannot get the immunisation. This is why medical specialists advise getting your child the rotavirus vaccine as soon as possible.

No vaccine is 100% effective, even though it virtually always shields against serious cases of illness from rotavirus. Your paediatrician can help you decide whether this particular vaccine is the appropriate preventive approach for your kid based on the risks and benefits involved.

Infants who have severe intussusception or combined immunodeficiency, as well as those who are already very unwell, shouldn’t receive the vaccine. A few infrequent vaccination adverse effects are as follows:

  • diarrhea
  • fever
  • fussiness
  • irritability
  • Having an intestinal obstruction called intussusception can result in severe stomach pain, vomiting, and bloody faeces (this is very rare)

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Important variation between Genital herpes and Oral herpes.

Important variation between Genital herpes and Oral herpes.

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What is herpes simplex?

Genital and oral herpes are viral infections brought on by the herpes simplex virus, generally known as HSV. Many people have HSV that is asymptomatic, which means they have the virus but have never experienced a herpes outbreak or active episode.

Others may occasionally get sores or blisters that are tiny and filled with fluid. Although they can emerge on your hands, fingers, or other regions of your body, these blisters most frequently develop on your genitalia, mouth, and lips.

HSV can be spread through sexual contact, but there are other ways to spread the virus. Herpes is stigmatised a lot, yet it’s actually quite common and nothing to be ashamed of.

The World Health Organization has provided estimates that show:

  • In 2016, over 67% of people under 50 worldwide had oral or genital HSV-1.
  • In 2016, approximately 13% of individuals aged 15 to 49 had HSV-2.

According to other studies, by the time adults are in their 50s, almost 90% of them carry HSV-1 antibodies. Herpes still has no known cure, however antivirals and natural therapies might lessen the intensity of symptoms. Less frequent herpes outbreaks may also result from antiviral therapy.

The herpes simplex virus comes in two primary varieties: HSV-1(Genital herpes) and HSV-2(Oral herpes).

Genital Herpes

A typical sexually transmitted infection is genital herpes (STI). Genital herpes is brought on by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). During sexual activity, skin-to-skin contact can frequently spread genital herpes.

Some virus-infected individuals may not even exhibit any symptoms or may have extremely minor ones. They still have the ability to spread the infection. Others experience discomfort, itchiness, and ulcers in their mouth, anus, or genitalia.

Herpes genitalis cannot be cured. Symptoms frequently return after the initial outbreak. Drugs can reduce symptoms. It also lessens the chance of spreading infection. A genital herpes infection can be stopped from spreading with the aid of condoms.

Oral Herpes

Herpes simplex virus type 1 frequently causes the infection known as oral herpes (HSV-1). Oral herpes symptoms most frequently manifest as “fever blisters” and “cold sores,” respectively, on or near the lips. However, oral herpes is not always restricted to one region.

Some people may experience symptoms that manifest between the top lip, on the nose or inside it, or on the chin or cheek. Herpes is referred to as oral-facial herpes in these cases. Most likely, you have witnessed an oral herpes outbreak previously.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Oral herpes

The worst stage of oral herpes is typically the initial (primary) infection. It may result in severe flu-like symptoms, such as headache and enlarged lymph nodes. Some individuals, however, have no symptoms at all. Sores on, around, and in the mouth can develop during the early infection.

Recurring infections typically have considerably milder symptoms, and the sores almost always appear on the lips’ outer margins. Some people never experience another infection after the initial one. The most typical warning signs and symptoms of recurrent oral herpes simplex infection are listed below.

  • The location where the infection will first manifest itself may experience initial redness, swelling, heat/pain, or itching.
  • Blisters that hurt and are packed with fluid might develop on the lips or under the nose. The fluid and blisters are very contagious.
  • The blisters will start to bleed and scab over.
  • The sores will start to crust up and heal after four to six days.

An oral herpes outbreak might mimic other diseases or health issues in terms of its signs and symptoms. For a precise diagnosis, always speak with your doctor.

Symptoms of Genital herpes

Most HSV carriers are unaware of their infection. They could have no symptoms at all or just very minor ones.

Within two to twelve days of viral exposure, symptoms appear. They may consist of:

  • Itching or discomfort at the genitalia
  • Blisters or little pimples near the genitals, anus, or mouth
  • Discouraging ulcers that develop when blisters break and leak or bleed
  • As the ulcers heal, scabs appear.
  • unpleasant urination
  • discharge from the urethra, the tube that allows the body to excrete pee
  • Expulsion from the vagina

You might frequently have flu-like symptoms during the initial outbreak, such as:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Body pains
  • Groin lymph nodes that are swollen

What causes herpes simplex?

HSV-1

HSV-1, or oral herpes, can be contracted or transmitted through close contact with a herpes sore, saliva, or other bodily secretions when an episode is in progress. Someone who comes into contact with the infection site directly from you could catch the virus if you’re shedding it.

Direct contact examples include:

  • kissing
  • verbal sex
  • supplementary skin-to-skin contact

In other words, you might catch the virus if you contact your partner’s cold sore and then quickly touch your own face or genitalia. Many youngsters get the virus from an adult who has a cold sore after being kissed or handled on the face.

In principle, the virus can spread through sharing razors, drinkware, and eating utensils, but this is extremely unlikely because, according to earlier estimations, the virus can only survive outside your body for a short period of time (a few hours to a few days).

HSV-2

Similar to HSV-1, HSV-2, often known as genital herpes, can be contracted or transmitted through direct contact with a herpes sore, saliva, or other bodily secretions while an episode is in progress. Additionally, HSV-2 can spread during viral shedding.

Direct communication may involve:

  • kissing
  • verbal sex
  • while having a sexual encounter, sharing sex toys
  • invasive sex
  • at the infection site, more skin-to-skin contact

Remember that both kinds of the virus can produce oral or genital episodes, despite the fact that many people associate HSV-1 with oral herpes and HSV-2 with genital herpes.

When to see a doctor

It can be challenging to determine whether to seek medical attention for a diagnosis and treatment because a person with herpes may not exhibit any symptoms.

As soon as someone notices sores on or around their genitalia, Planned Parenthood advises that individual to see a doctor. Syphilis is one STI that can have similar symptoms but calls for a different course of action. The American Sexual Health Association also advises getting a culture of any lesion or cold sore one detects before visiting a doctor.

Before visiting a doctor, people might choose to perform an at-home STI test. At-home tests should not, however, be used in place of expert diagnosis and care.

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Lets discover the various types of Rabies symptoms.

Lets discover the various types of Rabies symptoms.

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Introduction

A lethal virus called rabies inflames the brains of both humans and other creatures. Humans can contract rabies from infected animals by being bitten or scratched. The illness may be lethal if left untreated. If a person who has been exposed to rabies gets immediate medical assistance, it is however treatable.

Between one and three Americans develop rabies each year. 25 human cases of the illness were reported in the U.S. from 2008 to 2019, with eight of those cases involving travellers who contracted the disease abroad. Since the 1970s, rabies has been less common thanks to developments in medicine, public awareness, and vaccine campaigns.

However, the illness still affects people all over the world and kills tens of thousands of people each year, especially in rural Southeast Asia and Africa. 99% of rabies illnesses are brought on by dog bites.

What is Rabies?

An animal bite from an infected animal is the main way that the viral virus rabies is transmitted. It frequently results in death without early treatment.

It is an RNA rhabdovirus that has two different ways it might impact the body. Rabies has the ability to move directly into the peripheral nervous system from the brain. Additionally, because the immune system of the host cannot detect it in muscle tissue, it can reproduce there.

Through the neuromuscular connections, it then enters the nervous system. The virus causes severe brain inflammation after it has entered the neural system. Then comes coma and death.

Transmission

With 95% of cases occurring in Asia and Africa, stray dogs are most prevalent in nations where rabies is most prevalent.

Since the virus is spread through saliva, rabies can occur if an infected animal attacks a human. It can also happen if an infected animal’s saliva enters a wound that is open or passes through a mucous membrane, such the mouth or eyes. The virus, however, cannot penetrate intact skin.

Raccoons, coyotes, bats, skunks, and foxes are the species most likely to spread the disease in the United States. Every state in the US except Hawaii has bats that are rabies carriers.

Any mammal can carry and spread the virus, however smaller mammals like rodents seldom contract the disease or spread it. Additionally, rabbits are unlikely to transfer rabies.

Symptoms

The five phases of rabies development are as follows:

  • incubation
  • prodrome
  • acute neurological period
  • coma
  • death

Incubation

The period of incubation is when no symptoms are present. Depending on where the virus entered the body and how many viral particles were involved, it typically lasts between two and three months and can last anywhere from one week to one year. The consequences are likely to manifest sooner the closer the bite is to the brain.

When symptoms start to show, rabies is typically already lethal. Without waiting for symptoms to appear, anyone who has been exposed to the virus should seek medical attention right once.

Prodrome

Early, flu-like symptoms appear during prodrome and include:

  • a temperature of at least 100.4°F (38°C).
  • headache
  • anxiety
  • feeling ill overall
  • coughing and a painful throat
  • nauseous and dizzy
  • unease at the location of the bite.

Acute neurological period

During this phase, neurologic symptoms start to appear, such as:

  • bewilderment and hostility
  • a degree of paralysis
  • uncontrollable muscular twitching
  • strenuous neck muscles
  • convulsions
  • hyperventilation and breathing issues
  • hypersalivation, or excessive salivation
  • salivating in the mouth
  • the avoidance of water; hydrophobia
  • Nightmares, hallucinations, and sleeplessness
  • male priapism, or a constant erection
  • Fear of light is known as photophobia.
  • Breathing accelerates and becomes erratic at the end of this stage.

Death and coma

A person may go into a coma, and the majority of them pass away within three days. Almost no one survives rabies during the coma stage, not even with supportive care.

Prevention

Although rabies is a dangerous illness, both individuals and governments can take precautions to avoid transmission.

Strategies consist of:

  • routine rabies vaccines for domestic animals and pets
  • limitations or prohibitions on importing animals from specific nations
  • widespread human vaccinations in various places
  • awareness and knowledge for education
  • improved access to medical care for those bitten

To lessen the number of rabid wild animals in rural Canada and the US, agencies have dropped bait with an oral vaccine.

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Essential parameters you need to know to avoid Measles.

Essential parameters you need to know to avoid Measles.

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What is Measles?

Measles is an acute viral respiratory, highly contagious virus-caused airborne illness. Eight to twelve days after being exposed, symptoms may start to appear. For 10 to 14 days, symptoms may persist. Other names for measles include rubeola, 10-day measles, and red measles. It differs from rubella and the German measles.

According to the World Health Organization, there were around 110,000 measles-related fatalities worldwide in 2017, with most of these occurring in children under the age of 5. In recent years, instances of measles have also been rising in the US.

What is the difference between measles and German measles?

German measles (rubella) and the measles (rubeola) share several characteristics. Fever, sore throat, and rash are a some of the symptoms they share. But unlike the virus that causes German measles, the virus that causes measles is distinct.

For women who are expecting, German measles can be quite dangerous. This disorder may result in a miscarriage or give birth to a child with birth abnormalities. One vaccine can protect against both viral infections.

Who does measles affect?

Measles can infect anyone who hasn’t received a vaccination. Nearly everyone contracted the disease prior to the development of the measles vaccination. You are more likely to be immune to the measles virus if you have had measles or were immunised against it. After receiving the vaccine, you could still contract atypical or modified measles.

The measles was essentially eradicated in the United States by 2000 as a result of a successful vaccination campaign. Now, however, outbreaks have occurred as a result of a sizable percentage of parents choosing not to vaccinate their children. International tourists who have never received vaccinations have always posed a concern, but getting immunised reduces that risk.

What causes measles?

The morbillivirus, an exceedingly contagious virus, is what causes measles. In fact, nine of ten unvaccinated individuals in a room with a measles carrier would contract the disease. Measles is transmitted by:

  • Droplets of contaminated fluid that are released into the air when you cough, sneeze, or speak.
  • kissing a measles sufferer.
  • sharing beverages or meals with a measles patient.
  • embracing or shaking hands with a person who has the measles.
  • from expectant mothers to their unborn children, either during labour and delivery or when breastfeeding

Even after the measles sufferer has left the area, the airborne respiratory droplets may still be there.

After being exposed to measles, symptoms might appear anywhere between six and twenty one days later. The incubation period is now. Between four days before and four days after the rash begins, you are contagious.

Symptoms of Measles

After being exposed to the virus for 10 to 14 days, measles signs and symptoms start to manifest. Typical measles symptoms and signs include:

  • Fever
  • wet cough
  • clogged nose
  • unwell throat
  • irritated eyes (conjunctivitis)
  • Also known as Koplik’s spots, these tiny white dots with bluish-white centres on a red background can be discovered inside the mouth on the inner lining of the cheek.
  • a rash on the skin that consists of big, flat patches that frequently merge together

Infection progresses over the course of two to three weeks.

Generalised symptoms and signs. A low to moderate fever, along with other symptoms like a persistent cough, runny nose, itchy eyes (conjunctivitis), and a sore throat, are the typical first signs of measles. This comparatively minor ailment could last two to three days.

Rash and an acute sickness. Small red dots, some of which are slightly elevated, make up the rash. The skin appears splotchy red due to clusters of spots and pimples. First to break out is the face.

The rash begins to spread down the arms, chest, and back over the following several days before moving on to the thighs, lower legs, and feet. At the same time, the fever intensifies, frequently reaching 104 to 105.8 F(40 to 41 C).

Incubation and infection. The measles virus spreads in the body over the first 10 to 14 days following infection. There are currently no measles symptoms or indicators.

Recovery. The typical duration of a measles rash is seven days. The rash progressively goes away, beginning with the face and finishing with the thighs and feet. The cough and darkening or peeling of the skin where the rash occurred may last for about 10 days after other disease symptoms have subsided.

Is measles airborne?

Small aerosol particles and respiratory droplets both have the potential to spread measles through the air. When they cough or sneeze, an infected individual can cough or sneeze the virus into the air.

Also susceptible to adhering to things and surfaces are these respiratory particles. If you touch your face, nose, or mouth after coming into contact with a contaminated object, such a door handle, you could become infected.

You might be surprised to learn how long the measles virus can survive outside of the body. It’s actually contagious for up to two hours in the air or on surfaces.

Is measles contagious?

The measles spreads easily. This indicates that the virus can spread from person to person extremely quickly. A susceptible individual who is exposed to the measles virus has a 90% probability of contracting the disease. Furthermore, a virus can be disseminated by an infected person to anywhere from 9 to 18 vulnerable people.

Before others are aware of their own infection, a person with the measles can infect them. Four days pass before the recognisable rash forms in an infected person. They are still transmittable for an additional four days after the rash emerges.

Being unvaccinated is the primary risk factor for contracting the measles. Pregnant women, young children, and those with compromised immune systems are among those who are more likely to experience problems from measles infection.

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Important factors of Hepatitis C you need to know.

Important factors of Hepatitis C you need to know.

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After contracting the hepatitis C virus, you experience hepatitis C, an inflammation of the liver. This virus is bloodborne, which means that the only way to spread or get it is through blood that has the virus in it.

Acute or chronic hepatitis C are both possible.

  • Acute hepatitis C: Many times, acute hepatitis C has no symptoms at all. Any symptoms you do have may start to show up a week or two after exposure. They may go away on their own in a matter of weeks.
  • Chronic hepatitis C: On the other hand, chronic hepatitis C symptoms may emerge (and worsen) over the course of months or even years. Sometimes symptoms don’t show up until they’re quite bad.

Around 58 million people worldwide are thought to have chronic hepatitis C, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Hepatitis C is one of the most prevalent hepatitis kinds in the United States, along with hepatitis A and B. A vaccination to prevent hepatitis C does not yet exist, in contrast to those for hepatitis A and B.

If untreated, hepatitis C can result in serious, sometimes fatal health issues, such as:

  • cirrhosis (scarring of the liver)
  • liver damage
  • liver tumour

However, hepatitis C is typically curable. Rapid testing and treatment can lessen your risk of developing severe symptoms and liver failure.

Symptoms of hepatitis C

Acute

Most sufferers of acute hepatitis C don’t exhibit any symptoms. If they do, symptoms usually start to manifest two to twelve weeks following exposure. Acute hepatitis C is rarely diagnosed since there are no clear signs. As a result, physicians frequently refer to hepatitis C as the silent pandemic.

The severe symptoms resemble those of other viral illnesses quite closely. Acute hepatitis C symptoms include:

  • the fever
  • fatigue
  • abdomen ache
  • reduced appetite
  • dizziness or vomiting
  • dark faeces
  • stool in a shade of clay
  • joints hurt
  • jaundice, hardly ever

These illnesses frequently only last a few weeks and are minor. You might not require medical therapy if you have acute hepatitis C. This is because your body can sometimes fight the illness on its own.

It’s possible that you won’t even be aware of having the illness if you don’t exhibit any symptoms. Even though you may not be experiencing any symptoms, you can still spread the infection to others.

Chronic

Acute hepatitis C will progress to chronic hepatitis if your body cannot rid itself of the hepatitis C virus. Of those who have hepatitis C, between 55 and 85% go on to have chronic hepatitis C.

Without treatment, the chronic type of hepatitis C won’t go away on its own, and your symptoms may worsen. There may be long-term health effects from these symptoms. They might potentially result in liver cancer and long-term liver damage.

Chronic hepatitis C symptoms include:

  • chronic fatigue
  • a general sense of being sick
  • Aches and pains in muscles and joints
  • unaccounted weight loss
  • mood swings, including depressive or anxious thoughts
  • difficulty paying attention or remembering things

The chronic type of the illness won’t always result in immediately noticeable symptoms, similar to acute hepatitis C. You should get tested as soon as you can if you have any of the aforementioned symptoms and think you may have been exposed to the virus.

Causes of hepatitis C

Blood-to-blood contact is how the virus is spread. In other words, if the blood of a person who has hepatitis C comes into touch with your blood, you could contract the virus. This could occur because of:

  • transplantation of organs
  • sharing goods like toothbrushes and razors
  • sharing syringes
  • childbirth (the person giving birth can spread the infection to the infant) 
    the exchange of blood during sexual intercourse
  • piercing or getting a tattoo using non-sterile tools
  • If you’ve already had the virus, you could get it again.

Blood transfusions were thought to be a very plausible source of hepatitis C virus transmission before 1992. You now have a far lower probability of catching the virus through a transfusion because to medical advancements in blood screening.

You could be at an increased risk of transmission if you:

  • before 1992, you had a blood transfusion
  • had a transplanted organ before 1992
  • received blood products or clotting factor concentrates prior to 1987
  • received long-term hemodialysis treatment
  • hepatitis C-positive mother gave birth to them
  • had a hepatitis C-infected sexual partner
  • used needles that weren’t sterile

You can avoid spreading hepatitis C by:

  • kissing, embracing, or otherwise touching
  • feeding your infant
  • sharing meals and beverages
  • sneeze and coughing

Is hepatitis C curable?

Hepatitis C infections, whether acute or chronic, are frequently fully curable. (Keep in mind, though, that you still risk getting the virus again.)

Antiviral medication-based therapy can effectively treat hepatitis C 95% of the time. When tests no longer show the virus in your blood 12 weeks after the conclusion of treatment, medical specialists will consider you to be cured.

How is hepatitis C treated?

Hepatitis C patients do not always require therapy. Your immune system might be strong enough to successfully combat the illness and eliminate the virus from your body. Medication is typically effective in treating the illness if your immune system is unable to eradicate the infection.

Hepatitis C medications

Hepatitis C can be treated with a wide range of drugs. Antivirals are the most common type of treatment, while Riboviria may also be recommended if other measures have failed.

Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), a class of medications, work to completely eradicate the hepatitis C virus from your body. It also assist in the prevention of liver damage.

Several of the brands of these medicines include:

  • Zepatier
  • Harvoni
  • Epclusa
  • Vosevi
  • Mavyret

Hepatitis C has been classified into 6 distinct genotypes, or strains, by researchers.

Knowing your genotype will help your doctor or other healthcare provider decide which drug will work best for you. Your genotype may have an impact on the kind of treatments you can receive because some strains have acquired a tolerance to some drugs.

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Important signs and symptoms you need to know about Dengue.

Important signs and symptoms you need to know about Dengue.

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The virus that causes dengue is mostly spread via the bite of female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. There are no indications of dengue and severe symptoms that resemble the flu. A small proportion of people develop severe dengue, which can be fatal.

Dengue serotypes are groups of four closely related dengue viruses. Recovery from infection confers immunity against that serotype of dengue, but it also raises the chance of developing severe dengue if patients contract a different serotype later.

Every year, dengue infections affect millions of people globally. Southeast Asia, the western Pacific islands, Latin America, and Africa are where dengue fever is most prevalent. Localized outbreaks of the disease have been reported in Europe and the southern United States, among other new locations.

The development of dengue fever vaccines is ongoing. For now, in areas where dengue fever is common, the best ways to prevent infection are to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and to take steps to reduce the mosquito population.

Who does dengue fever affect?

Africa, Central and South America, some regions of Asia, and the Pacific Islands are where dengue is most frequently found. Dengue is present in a few areas of the United States. More than half of the world’s population, who reside or travel to these areas, are most at risk. The chance of developing a major illness is higher in children and the elderly.

How common is dengue fever?

Around 96 million of the 400 million dengue infections that are reported each year around the world result in disease. Most occurrences occur in tropical regions of the world, with the following regions having the highest risk:

  • The continent of India
  • Asia-Pacific is
  • China’s south
  • Taiwan
  • Islands in the Pacific
  • Atlantic Ocean (except Cuba and the Cayman Islands)
  • Mexico
  • Africa
  • South and Central America (except Chile, Paraguay, and Argentina)

The majority of cases in the US are visitors who caught the virus abroad. However, those who reside near the Texas-Mexico border as well as in other southern US regions are at an increased danger. A dengue fever outbreak was discovered in 2014 in Hawaii, with earlier outbreaks being reported in 2013 in Brownsville, Texas, and Key West, Florida.

Symptoms

Many persons may not exhibit any symptoms or indicators of dengue illness. When symptoms do show up, they typically start four to ten days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and may be mistaken for other ailments, like the flu.

Any of the following signs and symptoms, as well as a high fever of 104 F (40 C), are brought on by dengue fever:

  • Headache
  • joint, muscle, or bone pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • back of the eyes hurt
  • enlarged glands
  • Rash

Most folks get better in about a week. In some cases, symptoms worsen and can become life-threatening. This is called severe dengue, dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome.

Your blood vessels become damaged and leaky with severe dengue. Additionally, the quantity of platelets in your blood decreases. Shock, internal bleeding, organ failure, and even death may result from this.

There can be speedy development of severe dengue fever warning signs, which is a life-threatening emergency. The warning signals, which may include the following, may appear within the first day or two after your fever has subsided.

  • Severe stomach pain
  • continual vomiting
  • bleeding from the nose or gums
  • Having blood in your faeces, urine, or vomit
  • under-the-skin bleeding that may resemble bruises
  • arduous or quick
  • Fatigue
  • Easily irritated or restless

Causes

Any one of the four dengue virus types can cause dengue fever. Being around someone who has dengue fever won’t cause you to catch it. In contrast, mosquito bites are how dengue disease is transmitted.

There are two mosquito species that carry dengue viruses most frequently are widespread in and around residential areas. The dengue virus enters the mosquito when it bites a person who is afflicted with it. The virus then enters the bloodstream of the person who is bitten by the infected mosquito. This can produces an infection.

Once you have recovered from dengue fever, you are immune to the virus type that caused your infection for life, but not to the other three types that cause dengue fever. This implies that one of the other three virus types could infect you once more in the future. In the event that you contract dengue fever a second, third, or fourth time, your risk of acquiring severe dengue fever rises.

Risk elements

You are more likely to have dengue fever or a more severe version of the illness, if,

You frequent or reside in tropical locales. A higher risk of contracting the virus that causes dengue fever exist if you live in tropical or subtropical regions. Southeast Asia, the western Pacific islands, Latin America, and Africa are regions with very high risk.

You’ve previously experienced dengue fever. If you have already had dengue fever, you are more likely to experience severe symptoms if you contract the virus again.

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Important things you need to know about the flu(Influenza).

Important things you need to know about the flu(Influenza).

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The flu season typically lasts from late fall to early spring and is accompanied by the typical flu symptoms of fatigue, sniffling, sneezing, and coughing.

The illness’s severity varies from person to person, but the COVID-19 pandemic has brought a new sense of urgency to our need to safeguard ourselves as both of these viruses spread in the coming months.

Flu vaccinations are crucial every year, but this year they’re even more crucial to prevent the general public, especially vulnerable populations, from contracting the flu while COVID-19 is still a danger.

What is the flu?

A common and contagious virus called influenza is transmitted when droplets enter the body of a different person. The virus then establishes itself and starts to grow. The flu spreads throughout the country each year. According to a 2018 CDC study, the flu affects 3 to 11 percent of Americans each year. This explains why some people experience symptoms.

The flu’s main season is winter, with February being its peak. However, influenza can strike at any time of the year. There are numerous flu strains. Which viral strains will be most prevalent each year is decided by medical professionals and researchers. Then, vaccinations are created using those strains. One of the simplest and most reliable ways to prevent the flu is with a flu vaccine.

A few symptoms of the flu and the common cold are similar.

People who have any ailment frequently encounter:

  • runny or congested nose
  • sneezing
  • bodily pains
  • overall weariness

Generally speaking, flu symptoms are worse than cold symptoms. The seriousness of the two is another obvious distinction. Rarely do colds result in further medical concerns or issues. However, the flu can cause:

  • sinusitis
  • infected ears
  • pneumonia
  • sepsis

If your symptoms are severe, you might want to get a diagnosis of the flu or the common cold confirmed. Your doctor will order tests to assist identify the cause of your symptoms. Call beforehand to find out the procedure for going to a doctor in person or online during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The symptoms of the common cold and the flu should also be handled carefully because they are similar to those of COVID-19. You only need to treat your symptoms if your doctor identifies you with a cold until the virus has finished its course. These remedies may consist of:

  • utilising over-the-counter (OTC) medicine for colds
  • drinking water
  • obtaining lots of sleep

What’s the difference between the flu and COVID-19?

While there are some similarities between COVID-19, the flu, and allergies, there are also many differences. The primary signs of COVID-19 include:

Sneezing is unusual. The flu symptoms, such as fever and body aches, are comparable to COVID-19. However, you might not experience shortness of breath as a flu symptom. Sneezing, coughing, and wheezing are some of the more common chronic allergy symptoms.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

Fever

Your body temperature will nearly always rise when you have the flu. Fever is another name for this. The majority of fevers caused by the flu range from a low-grade fever of roughly 100°F (37.8°C) to a high-grade fever of 104°F (40°C).

While worrying, it’s not uncommon for young children to experience fevers that are higher than those of adults. Consult your child’s doctor if you think they may have the flu.

When your temperature is high, you could have “feverishness.” Chills, sweats, or feeling cold in spite of a high body temperature are symptoms. Most fevers last 3 to 4 days, which is less than a week in most cases.

Cough

When you have the flu, a dry, persistent cough is typical. It’s possible for the cough to get worse and become painful.

Occasionally, you could feel like your chest hurts or your breath is short. Many coughs brought on by the flu might continue for around 2 weeks.

Muscle pain

Your neck, back, arms, and legs are the most typical locations for flu-related muscle discomfort. They are frequently severe, making it challenging to move even when attempting to carry out simple duties.

Headache

Your first flu symptom can be a terrible headache. Sometimes headaches are accompanied by other symptoms, such as light and sound sensitivity.

Fatigue

A less visible flu symptom is feeling weary. One of several conditions can be an indicator of feeling generally ill. These feelings of exhaustion and fatigue may strike suddenly and be challenging to get rid of.

How long does the flu last?

The majority of people recover from the flu in a week or so. However, it can take a few more days until you feel like yourself again. Even a few days after your flu symptoms have disappeared, fatigue is not uncommon.

It’s crucial to skip the first day of class or work until you’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours (without using fever-reducing drugs, of course). A day before your symptoms start to manifest and for up to seven days afterward, the flu virus can be transmitted to another person.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, if you exhibit any cold or flu symptoms, you should separate yourself while getting tested and continue to practise excellent hygiene by:

  • the act of handwashing
  • cleaning up high-touch areas
  • putting on a face mask
  • staying away from other people

Treatment options for the flu

The majority of flu illnesses are mild enough for self-care at home without the use of prescription drugs. When you first experience flu symptoms, it’s crucial that you stay at home and limit your contact with others.

You will need to:

  • Drink a lot of water. This includes low-sugar flavoured drinks, soup, and water.
  • Use over-the-counter drugs to treat symptoms including fever and headaches.
  • To stop the virus from getting onto other surfaces or persons in your home, wash your hands.
  • Use tissues to cover your coughs and sneezes. Get rid of the tissues right away.
  • When outside, hide your face.

Remedies for flu symptoms

The flu is not enjoyable. However, there are numerous treatments for flu symptoms that offer significant relief.If you have the flu, have in mind these remedies:Pain relievers.

  • Pain relievers. drugs that reduce pain. It is frequently advised to use analgesics like acetaminophen and ibuprofen to relieve symptoms. These include headache, fever, and aches and pains in the muscles.
  • Decongestants. This kind of medication can ease sinus and ear pressure as well as nasal congestion. Read the labels carefully to choose the decongestant that is appropriate for you because each type can have some negative effects.
  • Expectorants. This kind of drug aids in reducing the buildup of thick sinus secretions that give you a cough-inducing feeling in your head.

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How dangerous can be Polio disease for a child?

How dangerous can be Polio disease for a child?

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The poliovirus is the illness that causes polio (poliomyelitis). Most people only experience minimal or no symptoms, but in a few, it might result in death or paralysis.

The three poliovirus variants are known as wild poliovirus types 1, 2, and 3. (WPV1, WPV2 and WPV3). Only a few regions of the world still have wild polio type 1, and wild polio types 2 and 3 have been eradicated (no longer exist). Paralysis is most likely to result from type 1 polio.

In several places of the world, polio cases are still present today. International efforts to eliminate polio are still underway, despite the fact that the number of infected individuals has significantly decreased.

The inactivated poliovirus vaccine should be given as a booster dose to adults who have already received it and are travelling to a region where polio is present. After receiving a booster, immunity is permanent.

Types of polio

Depending on the parts of your body the virus targets and multiplies in, polio can have various effects on you. the following types of polio:

  • Abortive poliomyelitis manifests as intestinal and influenza-like symptoms. It doesn’t have long-lasting effects and just lasts a few days.
  • Aseptic meningitis, a brain swelling, may result from non-paralytic poliomyelitis. It results in more symptoms than abortive poliomyelitis and can necessitate a hospital stay.
  • Paralytic poliomyelitis: When the poliovirus affects your brain and spinal cord, paralytic poliomyelitis results. The muscles that allow you to breathe, speak, swallow, and move your limbs can become paralysed by it. It is referred to as spinal polio or bulbar polio, depending on which areas of your body are afflicted. Together, spinal and bulbar polio can manifest (bulbospinal polio). Only 1% of polio survivors develop paralytic poliomyelitis.
  • Polioencephalitis: A uncommon form of polio that primarily affects newborns is polioencephalitis. The brain swells as a result.
  • Post-polio syndrome: When polio symptoms reappear years after an initial infection, it is known as post-polio syndrome.

What effects does polio have on my body?

Through the mouth or nose, the poliovirus enters your body. In your gut and throat, it reproduces additional copies of itself (intestines). It can sometimes enter your brain and spinal cord and paralyse you. Your arms, legs, or the muscles that control your breathing may become paralysed.

Who is exposed to polio?

You are most vulnerable to contracting polio if if are not immunised and you:

  • reside in or visit a region where polio still exists.
  • live in or visit a place with inadequate sanitary conditions.
  • are less than 5
  • are expecting.

Can adults contract polio?

Yes, polio can strike adults. Many adults have immunity, either through vaccinations or from having polio. Unvaccinated adults who are exposed to the poliovirus can get the disease.

How widespread is polio?

Thanks to widespread immunisation campaigns, symptomatic polio is uncommon in many regions of the world. Polio is no longer distributed there, and most nations consider it to be eradicated. However, polio can start to spread again if individuals stop taking their vaccinations.

Symptoms

The majority of those who are infected with the virus don’t become sick and are unaware they are infected, despite the fact that polio can result in paralysis and death.

Polio not paralytic

Some persons who experience polio symptoms get a kind of polio that doesn’t cause paralysis (abortive polio). The mild, flu-like signs and symptoms that are typical of other viral infections are typically caused by this.

The following signs and symptoms, which may persist up to 10 days:

  • Fever
  • unwell throat
  • Headache
  • Vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • back stiffness or pain
  • neck stiffness or discomfort
  • Arms or legs that are painful or stiff
  • a weakened or painful muscle

Dyskinetic syndrome

Rarely does the disease manifest in its most severe form. Fever and headache are common early paralytic polio symptoms that can be mistaken for nonparalytic polio. But after a week, more symptoms start to show, such as:

  • decline in reflexes
  • muscular weakness or excruciating aches
  • slack and flaccid limbs (flaccid paralysis)

Poliomyelitis syndrome

Some patients have post-polio syndrome, a collection of incapacitating signs and symptoms, years after they had polio. Typical warning signs and symptoms include:

  • discomfort and deteriorating muscle or joint weakness
  • Fatigue
  • muscles are lost (atrophy)
  • issues with breathing or swallowing
  • respiratory issues that affect sleep, like sleep apnea
  • less ability to tolerate cold temperatures

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