Common Types of Infectious Diseases

Some of the most prevalent infectious diseases include:

• COVID-19: Caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, it affects the respiratory system and can lead to a range of symptoms from mild to severe.

• Hepatitis A and B: Viruses that affect the liver, leading to inflammation and potential long-term liver damage. Transmission varies: Hepatitis A is often foodborne, while B is typically spread through blood and bodily fluids.

• Lyme Disease: Caused by bacteria transmitted through tick bites, leading to symptoms like rash, fever, and joint pain.

• H. pylori: A common bacterial infection of the stomach lining that can lead to ulcers and digestive discomfort. Often spread through contaminated food or water.

• Dengue Fever: A viral illness transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical regions, causing high fever, severe headaches, joint pain, and skin rash.

Symptoms to Watch For

Symptoms vary depending on the disease but may include:

• Fever and chills

• Fatigue

• Muscle aches

• Coughing or shortness of breath

• Diarrhoea or vomiting

• Skin rashes or sores

• Swollen lymph nodes

It's important to note that some infectious diseases can be asymptomatic, meaning individuals may carry and transmit the disease without showing signs.

If you have any or a combination of these symptoms it is important that you get tested. By delaying your diagnosis, your symptoms may get worse. Call Better2Know's helpful advisors today to get the answers and treatment that you need.

How Are Infectious Diseases Transmitted?

Infectious diseases can be transmitted in a variety of ways. Direct contact, such as touching, kissing, or close personal interaction, is a common method of spread. Indirect contact can also occur through touching contaminated surfaces or objects. Some diseases are airborne, meaning they can be transmitted by inhaling droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. In other cases, transmission happens through vector-borne routes, such as bites from infected insects like mosquitoes or ticks. Additionally, consuming contaminated food or water can introduce harmful pathogens into the body.

Prevention and Protection

To reduce the risk of contracting or spreading infectious diseases:

• Practice good hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water.

• Stay up-to-date with vaccinations: Ensure immunisations are current.

• Avoid close contact with sick individuals: Maintain distance from those who are unwell.

• Cook food thoroughly: Ensure meats are properly cooked and avoid unpasteurised products.

• Use insect repellent: Protect against bites from mosquitoes and ticks.

Testing and Diagnosis

Early detection through testing is vital. Better2Know offers a wide range of confidential tests for many different infectious diseases. Depending on the disease, tests may involve blood samples, swabs, or urine samples. Prompt diagnosis allows for timely treatment and reduces the risk of complications.

Treatment Options

Treatment varies based on the specific disease:

• Antibiotics: Used for bacterial infections like tuberculosis or Lyme disease.

• Antiviral medications: Prescribed for viral infections such as influenza or hepatitis.

• Supportive care: Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms.

It's essential to follow the treatment plan prescribed by healthcare professionals and complete the full course of medication. Better2Know can help you organise any further testing, consultations or treatment that you may need.

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