Health is one of the most significant aspects of life. However, sometimes people tend to overlook common diseases that aren’t life-threatening until they escalate to something more severe. Infectious diseases are among the most common ailments worldwide, affecting individuals of all ages, races, and backgrounds. What’s more, health experts continue to make strides in developing revolutionary ways to curb the spread of these diseases and provide effective treatment. Here are the latest innovative treatments that have been developed to fight them.
Insect-borne Infections:
Insect-borne infections are an all too common type of infectious disease that can be passed on by mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects. These infections arise when the insect vector transmits a pathogen to humans through their bite. Common examples of insect-borne infections include the following:
Malaria
Malaria is transmitted by the Anopheles mosquito and affects millions of people worldwide. It is known for causing fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms.
Fortunately, innovative treatments have been developed over the years to manage and control malaria, making it progressively rare in most parts of the world. Furthermore, the mosquito population can be reduced through the use of insecticide-treated mosquito nets, indoor residual spraying, and larvicides, all of which have proven to be effective in reducing malaria cases globally.
Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is a tropical disease that is spread by the Aedes mosquito. The symptoms of dengue can range from mild to severe and can be fatal if not treated properly.
To help combat this disease, scientists are developing vaccines and treatments that have been proven effective in preventing or at least reducing the severity of dengue cases. Furthermore, vector control measures such as the removal of standing water and strict enforcement of insecticide use have been seen to be effective in slowing the spread of dengue.
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is spread through the bite of an infected tick. It can cause signs and symptoms such as fever, joint pain, rashes, and more.
The most common method of preventing Lyme disease is using insect repellents to ward off ticks. However, there are also more recent chronic Lyme disease treatments that can help manage the condition. These treatments combine antibiotics with lifestyle changes and alternative therapies such as acupuncture, dietary supplements, yoga, or massage to help reduce the symptoms.
Viral Infections:
Viral infections are another type of infectious disease that can be spread through contact with an infected individual, contaminated surfaces, or even the air. Common examples of viral infections include the following:
Influenza
Influenza is a highly contagious virus that can cause mild to severe respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, and more. It is usually spread through contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces.
To prevent the spread of influenza, health experts recommend getting vaccinated each year. Vaccines against certain strains of the virus have been proven to reduce its severity and mortality rate. Furthermore, antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir and zanamivir are also available for those who do get infected.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver. This disease affects over 2.4 million people in the US alone and can lead to serious liver damage if left untreated. Fortunately, there has been a recent breakthrough in the development of drugs known as direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) that have revolutionized the way Hepatitis C is treated.
They have a high success rate (90% to 100%) in curing Hepatitis C when used daily for two to three months. Hepatitis C can also be prevented by avoiding high-risk behaviors such as using shared needles, unsafe sex practices, and practicing proper hygiene.
HIV AIDS
HIV AIDS is a chronic infection that affects the immune system and can lead to further complications like cancer. Antiretroviral drugs, such as dolutegravir/lamivudine or tenofovir alafenamide/emtricitabine, have been proven to reduce HIV viral levels in the blood and help manage the infection.
Bacterial Infections:
Bacterial infections are also a type of infectious disease that is transmitted through bacteria or their toxins. They can range from mild to severe and require medical attention to prevent further complications. Some common bacterial infections include the following:
Strep Throat
Strep throat is an infection of the throat caused by Streptococcus bacteria. It can cause symptoms such as a sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and more. The most effective way to treat this infection is through antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin.
Cholera
Cholera is a bacterial infection that causes severe diarrhea and vomiting. It is often caused by consuming contaminated water or food. Cholera outbreaks frequently occur in developing countries that have poor sanitation and hygiene practices.
Recently, a revolutionary oral cholera vaccine (OCV) was developed, which has been effective in preventing the spread of cholera in developing countries. Improved water and food hygiene practices are also crucial in preventing cholera outbreaks.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is a severe infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. It mainly affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. What’s alarming is that TB ranks as the top 13th cause of death worldwide.
Fortunately, there have been recent breakthroughs in the development of shorter and more effective treatments to manage TB, which can be administered in three to four months. Furthermore, the development of diagnostic tools has greatly improved the diagnosis of TB, leading to prompt and effective treatment.
Through innovation and advances in medical research and treatment, millions of people worldwide can manage and overcome common infectious diseases. As health enthusiasts, you must take the initiative to practice proper hygiene, educate yourself and others on preventive measures, and get vaccinated against infectious diseases. Together, everyone can achieve a world where common infectious diseases are rare, manageable, or even eradicated.