Mumps is a viral infection caused by the mumps virus, which primarily affects the salivary glands, leading to swelling and inflammation. It is typically a childhood illness but can occur in individuals of any age who have not been vaccinated or previously exposed to the virus. Mumps is preventable through vaccination. Causative Agents of Mumps … Read more
Rubella, also known as German measles, is a viral infection caused by the rubella virus. It is usually a mild illness, but it can have serious consequences if contracted by pregnant women, leading to congenital rubella syndrome in the unborn child. Rubella is preventable through vaccination. Causative Agents of Rubella The rubella virus, a member … Read more
Measles, or rubeola, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the measles virus. It primarily affects children but can occur in people of any age who have not been vaccinated or previously exposed to the virus. Measles is characterized by a distinctive rash, fever, and other symptoms. Causative Agents of Measles The measles virus, … Read more
Chickenpox, or varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It primarily affects children but can also occur in adults who have not been exposed to or vaccinated against the virus. Chickenpox typically presents with a characteristic rash of itchy, fluid-filled blisters that spread over the body. Causative Agents of … Read more
1. Epidemic An epidemic refers to the occurrence of a disease in a population at a frequency greater than what is normally expected within a specific time period. It often implies a sudden increase in the number of disease cases beyond what is typical for the population or region. Example: The Ebola outbreak in West … Read more
Epidemiology is the study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in specified populations and the application of this study to control health problems. It is a cornerstone of public health, providing crucial insights into the patterns, causes, and effects of diseases within populations. Key Concepts in Epidemiology 1. Distribution: Epidemiologists study … Read more
SARS-CoV-2 is a novel coronavirus responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). It was first identified in Wuhan, China, in late 2019 and has since led to a global pandemic. Etiopathogenesis 1. Transmission: Primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. 2. Viral Entry: SARS-CoV-2 enters human cells via the … Read more
Opportunistic infections (OIs) are infections caused by pathogens that typically do not cause disease in individuals with intact immune systems but can exploit weakened immunity, as seen in conditions such as HIV/AIDS, immunosuppressive therapies, or certain medical conditions. Opportunistic infections can affect various organs and systems, leading to severe and potentially life-threatening complications. Etiopathogenesis 1. … Read more
HIV is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which play a crucial role in the body’s defense mechanism. The virus can lead to the progressive failure of the immune system and, if untreated, can result in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Etiopathogenesis 1. Transmission: HIV is primarily transmitted through … Read more
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It progresses through distinct stages, each characterized by specific clinical manifestations. If left untreated, syphilis can lead to severe complications, affecting various organs and systems. Etiopathogenesis 1. Transmission: – Mainly transmitted through sexual contact (vaginal, anal, or oral) with an infected … Read more
