A communicable disease is one that spreads from one person or animal to another or from a surface to a person. They are the result of pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria. Communicable diseases include colds and flu.
Communicable diseases can transmit through contact with bodily fluids, insect bites, contaminated surfaces, water, and foods, or through the air.
This article will discuss communicable diseases, their symptoms, and how to avoid them.
Symptoms
Once a pathogen has entered a person’s body, it often will begin replicating. The individual may then begin to experience symptoms.
Symptoms will vary depending on the disease. Some people will not experience any symptoms. However, they can still transmit the pathogen.
Some symptoms are a direct result of the pathogen damaging the body’s cells. Others are due to the body’s immune response to the infection.
Some communicable diseases may be mild, and symptoms pass after a few days. However, some can be serious and potentially life threatening. Symptom severity may vary depending on a person’s overall health and immune function.
Types and symptoms
Four main types of pathogens cause infection: Viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa.
Viruses
Viruses are tiny pathogens that contain genetic material. Unlike other pathogens, they lack the complex structure of a cell.
To replicate, they must enter the cells of other living beings. Once inside, they use the cell’s machinery to make copies of themselves.
Bacteria
Bacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms. They exist in almost every environment on earth, including inside the human body.
Many bacteria are harmless, and some help the body to function. However, bacteria can also cause infections that damage the body.
Fungi
Fungi are a type of organism that includes yeasts, molds, and mushrooms. There are millionsTrusted Source of different fungi. However, only around 300 cause harmful illnesses.
Fungal infections can occur anywhere in the body. However, they commonly affect the skin and mucus membranes.
Protozoa
Protozoa are microscopic organisms that typically consist of a single cell.
Some protozoa are parasitic, meaning they live on or inside another organism and use the organism’s nutrients for their own survival. Parasitic protozoa can cause various diseases.
Causes
A person may develop a communicable disease after becoming infected by the pathogen. This may happen through:
- direct contact with a person carrying the pathogen
- contact with bodily fluids containing pathogens
- inhaling pathogen-containing droplets from another person’s cough or sneeze
- receiving a bite from an animal or insect carrying the pathogen
- consuming contaminated water or foods.
How to prevent transmission
People can reduce their risk of contracting or transmitting disease-causing pathogens by following the steps below:
- washing their hands thoroughly and regularly
- disinfecting surfaces at home often, especially doorknobs and food areas
- disinfecting personal items such as phones
- cooking meats, eggs, and other foods thoroughly
- practicing good hygiene when preparing and handling food
- avoiding eating spoiled food
- avoiding touching wild animals
- receiving available vaccinations
- taking antimalarial medications when traveling where there is a malaria risk
- check for ticks and other parasites
Treatment for communicable diseases
Some communicable diseases cause only mild symptoms that disappear without treatment. Others may cause severe symptoms or potentially life threatening complications.
Patients require different treatment depending on disease process and clinical presentation.
Viral infections
Vaccines are a highly effective method for preventing specific viral infections. There are several different types of vaccines.
When a person receives a vaccine, they are receiving a form of the virus. The immune system responds by producing antibodies capable of killing an active form of the virus in the future.
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