Communicable Diseases

Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It is highly contagious and spreads through coughing, sneezing, or contact with fluid from the blisters of an infected person. Symptoms include fever, itchy rash with blister-like lesions, and headache. Most cases of chickenpox are mild and resolve within a few weeks, but it can cause serious complications in some cases, particularly in infants, adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

Measles, also known as rubeola, is a viral infection caused by the measles virus. It is highly contagious and spreads through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash all over the body. Measles can be serious and even fatal, particularly in young children and people with weakened immune systems. The measles vaccine is highly effective at preventing the disease.

Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person has had chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nervous system and can reactivate later in life, causing shingles. Symptoms include a painful rash with blister-like lesions, as well as headache, fever, and chills. The shingles vaccine is recommended for people over the age of 50 to reduce the risk of developing the condition.

Herpes simplex is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two types of herpes simplex virus: type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 usually causes cold sores around the mouth, while HSV-2 usually causes genital herpes. Both types of herpes simplex virus are highly contagious and spread through contact with infected saliva, genital secretions, or skin. Symptoms include painful blisters or sores in the affected area, as well as fever and swollen lymph nodes. There is no cure for herpes simplex, but antiviral medications can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks.

Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver caused by a viral infection, alcohol consumption, or certain medications. There are several types of viral hepatitis, including hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Symptoms can include fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, and nausea. Some types of hepatitis can cause chronic liver disease, liver failure, and liver cancer. Vaccines are available to prevent hepatitis A and B, and antiviral medications can be used to manage hepatitis C.

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It was first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019 and has since spread worldwide, causing a global pandemic. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and loss of taste or smell. The best ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19 include vaccination, wearing masks, practising social distancing, and washing hands frequently.