An infection is the invasion of pathogens into the body.
–Pathogens are organisms that cause diseases.
–Common pathogens include: viruses, bacteria, fungi, protoctista, and worms
–Infection simply means a disease-causing organism is inside a person’s but an infected
person does not always show symptoms of being unwell.
A disease is a condition that interferes with health of the body.
–Diseases are usually characterised by certain symptoms.
–It can be caused by an infection(pathogens),an inborn condition, or environmental
and social factors.
WAYS THROUGH WHICH PATHOGENS SPREAD/ ENTERING IN THE BODY OF AN
ORGANISM (HOST)
Some diseases are caused by other living organisms invading our bodies. These
organisms are called pathogens. A pathogen is an organism which causes disease. Common
pathogens include: Viruses, Most of the bacteria, fewof protoctista, few of fungi and worms.
They may release harmful substances called toxins (antigens) into your body, therefore; both
of these activities can make you ill. The following are the ways through which pathogens
spread/ entering in the body of host.
Through air droplets –enter the respiratory system. Secretions from an infected person
are transferred from the nose or mouth onto the surface or hands by droplets produced
when sneezing, spitting, coughing, or speaking and if the droplets come into contact with
mucus membranesof the eye, nose or mouth of another person.Common diseases spread by
airborne droplet include tuberculosis (TB), SARS, influenza, flu, and COVID-19.
Through sexual intercourse –enter into the reproductive system. Some pathogens can
be transmittedfrom one infected person to another through sexual contact. These are also
known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and diseases (STDs). Examples are:
gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV and AIDS, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.
Taking contaminated foodand water–enter into the digestive system. Spread
through eating or drinking contaminated food or water, blood or other fluids.
Microorganism like E.coli and Salmonella enter the digestive system in this manner (Poor
hygiene). Common diseases spread by contamination include; typhoid fever, cholera,
amoebic dysentery.
Through contact –enter into the skin. Some pathogens can be transmitted from an
infected person to another through direct or indirect contact. Direct contacts via contact
with infected skin, mucous membranes or body fluids include skin to skin contact, sexual
intercourse, or kissing. Indirect contacts include touching belongs of an infected person like
clothing, wound dressings, contaminated surface like door knobs, utensils or a table surfaces.
Examples of diseases include: cold sores, Scabies and measles.
Spread through vectors –enters into the blood.Vectors are organisms that carry
pathogens froman infected person to another. Vectors include snails, tsetse flies, and
mosquitoes. Examples of diseases transmitted by vectors are bilharzia, sleeping sickness, and
malaria.
Generally pathogens spreadsand enters in the body of an organism but there are
different ways of an organism to defence against pathogens include skin by using sweat
gland to produce sweat which act as antibacterial and kill bacteria also in the digestive
system such as stomach wall produce hydrochloric acid tokill bacteria.
WAYS OF BODY TO DEFENCE AGAINST DISEASES
The human body has defence systems that either prevent microorganisms from entering the
body or combat them when they manage to enter the body. There is a defence system in
the skin, eyes, ears, digestive system, and blood that prevent the entry of microorganisms.
1.Skin: Intact skin is a physical barrier against entry of pathogens.
Sweat glands in the skin produce sweat, which contains antibacterial agents that
kill bacteria.
–Sebaceous glands of the skin produce oily substance (sebum) which contains
antibacterial agents that kill bacteria on the skin.
2.Eyes: eye lashes, eye lids, and eye brows prevent dust particles and other foreign bodies
from entering the eyes.
–Tear glands found in the upper eyelids produce tear.
3.Ear:
–The lining of ear canal produces waxy material, which traps bacteria, viruses, and
small dust particles.
4.Digestive system: include the mouth, stomach, and intestines.
–In the mouth: Salivary glands in the mouth produce saliva, which is a mild
antibacterial agent.
–In the stomach wall Hydrochloric acid produced helps to kills and destroys bacteria
taken in with food.
–In the small intestine, the digestive juices produced helps to digest and kill the
bacteria in the intestine.
5.Blood: white blood cells comprises of lymphocytes and phagocytes.
–The lymphocytes produce antibodies that destroy pathogens.
–The phagocytes engulf the microorganisms invading the body
Thus defending the body against disease-causing organisms.
Categories of Diseases
Diseases can be classified
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
Communicable disease: these are diseases which can spread from an infected person to
another. They can be caused by pathogens such as viruses, fungi, protozoa, bacteria, and
helminthes (worms).
Communicable diseases can also be classified according to their occurrence such as:
a)An epidemic disease,
–Cholera
–Meningitis
–Tuberculosis
–Plague
–Typhoid
b)A pandemicdisease,
–COVID –19
–HIV/AIDS
c)An endemicdisease,
–Bilharzia
–Malaria
d)A sporadic disease,
–Ebola
–Rift valley fever
COVID –19
Disease: Covid -19
Covid–19 is a pandemic disease: communicable disease outbreak that becomes wide
spread in a large geographical area such as continent or the whole world.
Cause: Caused by Corona virus –19
Mode of transmission of Covid –19
It can be transmitted through:
–Coming into contact with an infected person.
–Inhaling air droplets from an infected person.
–Touching surface that have been contaminated by virus when touching eyes, nose and
mouth.
Risk factors:
Anyone is at risk of being infected with Covid –19
-However people with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, sickle
cell anaemia, HIV/AIDS, athma, and cancer are at higher risk.
Symptoms of Covid -19
–Fever
–Headache
–Dry cough
–Tiredness
–Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath.
–Joint aches and pains.
–Loss of smell and taste.
–Abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting
Note:
Infected individuals may asympomatic
Effects of Covid –19
–Lung damage.
–Lead to blood clotting.
–Can lead to death.
Prevention and control measures of Covid –19
–Avoid unnecessary gatherings.
–Frequently wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean running water.
–Use hand sanitizers as often as possible.
–Wear masks when going to public places.
–Seek medical care at nearest health facility.
–Keep social distance.
–Isolation of patients.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
UPPER RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTION (URTI)
Disease: Common includes –Flu or influenza, and cough.
Causes: Most of these diseases are caused by virus such as influenza virus. However, some
infections such as flu are caused by allergy.
Mode of transmission:
These diseases can be transmitted by:
–Contacting body fluid of sick person.
–Air droplets (air-borne)
Risk factors
–Crowded areas.
–Having allergy to pollen, dust and some kind of smells like perfumes or insecticides.
–Low body immunity.
Symptoms of URTI
–Fever
–Headache
–Dry cough
–Tiredness
–Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath.
–Running nose.
Effect of URTI
Affects upper respiratory tract
Prevention /control measures of URTI
–Frequently wash hands thoroughly with soap and clean running water.
–Use clean and ironed handkerchiefs.
–Wear masks in public or dusty places.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
EBOLA
Disease:Ebola
Ebola is a sporadic communicable disease outbreak that occurs occasionally and at
random intervals.
Causal of Ebola: Caused by Ebola virus
Mode of transmission of Ebola
It can be transmitted by:
–Contacting body fluids from a sick person or a person that died recently from the disease.
–Consuming or contacting an infected chimpanzee or monkey.
Risk factors
–Living in places where they consume chimpanzee or monkey meat.
–History of travelling to places with Ebola outbreak.
Symptoms of Ebola
–Fever
–Body weakness
–Bleeding through body orifices (nose, eyes, mouth, anus, urethra, and ears)
Effects of Ebola
–Affects spleen and kidneys.
–Damage of the immune system.
–Lead to death.
Prevention/control measures of Ebola
–Restrict travel to places or countries with Ebola outbreak.
–Quarantine the affected areas and individuals.
–Avoid body contact with an infected person.
–Do not consume wild meat without knowing the source.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
CHOLERA
Disease: Cholera
Cholera is an epidemic communicable disease outbreak that affects a large number of
people in a short period of time at a given locality.
Causal organism: it is an acute infection of the intestinal tract caused by bacteria called
Vibrio cholera
Mode of transmission of cholera
–The bacteria are normally found in infected water and are passed on byflies to food
there by contaminating the food.
–Therefore, cholera spread through ingesting contaminated food or drinks.
Risk factors:
–Poor environmental sanitation and hygiene –can easily contact the disease from
contaminated water.
–Water scarcity.
–Poorpersonal hygiene.
Symptoms of cholera
–Watery diarrhoea like rice water.
–Severe vomiting.
–Abdominal pain.
–Sunkeneyes.
Effects of cholera
–Dehydration.
–Muscle cramps.
–Acute thirst.
–Body weakness.
–May lead to death if not treated early.
Prevention/control measures of Cholera
–Wash hands with soap and clean running water after using the toilet.
–Boil or treat drinking water.
–Wash hands with soap and clean running water before eating.
–Wash fruits and vegetables.
–Eat warm food.
–Use toilet properly.
–Cover the food.
–Pit latrines should be covered.
–Education and awareness campaigns on proper use of latrines, importance of washing
hands after defecation and vising toilet, maintain personal hygiene.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
Isolate infected patients and people they are in contact with should be treated by
qualified personnel.
During outbreak all affected people should be isolated and vaccinations to be given to
those under threat of possible infection. Movement of people should be controlled.
TUBERCULOSIS (TB)
Disease: Tuberculosis (TB)
Tuberculosis is an epidemic communicable disease outbreak that affects a large number of
people in a short period of time at a given locality.
Causal organism: it is caused by bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Mode of transmission of Tuberculosis
Spreads droplets when coughing or sneezing
Risk factors
–Low immunity.
–Visiting places with endemic TB cases.
–Poor living and working conditions.
–Smoking.
–Malnutrition.
–Indoor air pollution.
–Consumption of untreated milk from infected dairy animal.
Symptoms of Tuberculosis
–Prolonged cough.
–Blood stained sputum.
–Fever.
–Poor appetite.
–Weight loss.
–Lack of energy.
–Night sweats.
–Coughing.
Effects
–Lung damage.
–Bone damage.
–Kidney damage.
–Bone infections.
–Hunchback.
–Damage to the immune system.
Prevention/control measures of Tuberculosis (TB)
–Vaccination.
–Avoid crowded areas.
Avoid living in poorly ventilated houses.
–Patient who has started medical treatment should wear mask or be isolated for 14 days.
–Patients should cover nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
PLAGUE
Disease: Plague
It is caused by bacteria called Yersinia pestis.
Mode of transmission
Spread by fleas found on rats
Risk factors include:
–Poor environmental sanitation.
–Poor procedures for handling and care of pet.
–Exposure to animal and insects.
–Poor public health inspection.
Symptoms of plague
–Inflammation of lymph nodes.
–Fever
–Internal bleeding.
–Body aches.
–Coughing and shortness of breath.
Effect
Plague leads to:
–Anaemia.
–Pneumonia.
Prevention/control measures of Plague
–Vaccination.
–Eliminating rats and fleas.
–Keeping house clean.
–Leftovers should kept in tight vessels to discourage rat in houses.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
MENINGITIS
Disease: Meningitis
It is caused by bacteria called Meningococcus sp.
Mode of transmission
–Spread through droplets when coughing, sneezing, or kissing.
Risk factors:-
–Living in crowded areas.
–Poor housing structure.
–Low immunity.
Symptoms of Meningitis
–Fever
–Headache
–Seizures or fits
–Stiff neck
–Delirium
Effects
–Brain damage.
–Poor coordination of movements.
–Deafness.
–Paralysis.
Prevention/control measures
–Isolation of patients.
–Vaccination.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
BILHARZIA (SCHISTOMIASIS)
Disease: Bilharzia
It is caused byparasitic fluke called Schiostosoma sp.
Mode of transmission
Spread by aquatic snail (vector). Larva stage of Schiostosomais released into water by
snails. These enter into the human body by penetrating the skin of the human coming into
contact with the water, or can be consumed in contaminated water.
Risk factors
–Occupational factors like fishermen and paddy farmers.
–Poor environmental sanitation and hygiene.
–Access to water source.
Symptoms of Bilharzia
–Blood stained faeces or urine.
–Abdominal pain.
–Fever
–Tiredness
–Enlarged liver and spleen.
Effects
–Schistosoma damage blood vessels around the intestine (Intestinal damage) and bladder
(Bladder damage) causing blood to appear in urine or stool.
–Kidney damage
–Spleen damage and reduce body immunity.
–Anaemia
–Liver damage.
–Damage host skin when penetrating and this causes itching.
Prevention/control measures
–Avoid swimming in untreated stagnant water.
–Proper disposal of sewage.
Wearing protective shoes when in water-logged areas.
–Draining stagnant.
–Educate people living in infected areas on the proper use of latrines.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
MALARIA
Disease: Malaria
It is caused by protozoa called Plasmodium sp.
Mode of transmission
Malaria transmitted by female Anopheles mosquito.
Plasmodium is transmitted to human by anopheles mosquito. When the adult female
anopheles mosquito bites an infected person, it sucks up the blood together with the
plasmodium which remains in its salivary glands where it can survive for some time.
When this mosquito bites a person who is not infected, it injects the plasmodium present in
its saliva into the blood of the person.
Risk factors
–Poor environmental sanitation and hygiene.
–Poor housing structure.
–Housing near breeding sites.
Symptoms of Malaria
–Nausea and vomiting.
–Pain in joints and muscles aches.
–Headache.
–Abdominal pain and general feeling of weakness.
–Fever
–Chills
–Sweating at night.
Effects
–Breaks out of the liver cells (liver damage) into the red blood cells where it reproduces
and makes them to burst.
–Anaemia occurs due to the bursting of the red blood cells.
–Kidney failure.
–Brain damage.
–Spleen damage.
–Death.
Prevention/control measures
–Sleeping under treated mosquito nets.
–Draining stagnant water.
–Cutting long grass in residential areas.
–Using mosquito repellents.
–All septic tanks should be air tight and if possible fumigation should conducted.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
SCABIES
Disease: Scabies
It is caused by microscopic mites.
Mode of transmission
Spread by skin-to-skin contact or sharing clothing, towels, and bedding.
Risk factors
–Poor personal hygiene.
–Poor environmental sanitation and hygiene.
–Living in overcrowded premises for example in prison, school, and dormitories.
Symptoms of scabies
–Intense itching.
–Rashes and burrows on the skin.
–Sores on the skin.
Effects
–Persistent skin rashes.
–Damaged skin.
–Can lead to secondary infections.
Prevention/control measures
–Good personal hygiene.
–Wash contaminated clothes in hot water and dry them in the sun.
–Avoid sharing personal items, especially clothes and towels.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
RABIES
Disease: Rabies
It is caused by Rabies virus.
Mode of transmission
Rabies can be transmitted through:
–Scratches or bites from infected cats, dogs, jackals, human or other animal.
–Organ transplants from infected people.
–Direct contact of eyes, nose, and mouth with saliva of an infected animal.
Risk factors
–Poor environmental sanitation.
–Poor procedure for handling and care of pet.
–Exposure to animals and insects.
–Poor public health law enforcement.
Symptoms of Rabies
–Fever
–Pain at the site of the bite.
–Difficulty swallowing.
–Restlessness.
Muscle spasms.
–Convulsions
–Loss of feeling.
–Drooling.
–Foaming at the mouth.
Effects
–Damage of the nervous system.
–Brain damage.
–Paralysis.
–Death
Prevention/control measures
–Pets should be taken care of
–Stay away from suspicious pets
–When bitten by a dog or other animals report immediately to a nearby health care
facility.
–Vaccination.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
TYPHOID
Disease: Typhoid
It is caused by bacteria called Salmonella tymphi.
Mode of transmission
–It is common in areas where there is poor sanitation leading to contaminated water and
food.
–Unhygienic handling of food or food products by person infected with salmonella tymphi
is another method of transmission.
–Flies feed on infected excreta and deposit it on human food. This may also spread the
disease.
Symptoms
–It cause headache.
–Fever
–Abdominal pain and diarrhea as it attacks the walls of the intestines.
Effects of Typhoid
–This causes ulcers which may lead to breakdown of the intestinal wall.
–Hence causes death.
Prevention/ control measures
–Isolation of patients to avoid spread.
–Sterilizing clothes used by patients.
–Proper disposal of faeces in the latrines and not in the bushes.
–Water treatment and purification to kill the bacteria.
–Good hygiene like washing hands properly after vising the toilet, washing of fruits and
vegetables with clean water.
–Vaccination in case of outbreaks of the diseases.
roper sewage treatments should be done in towns to kill or destroy the bacteria.
–Household and areas around them should be kept clean to prevent flies from breeding in
them.
–Seek immediate medical treatment: Proper medical treatment by a qualified doctor in
the case of infection by the disease.
NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
Non-communicable diseases: these diseases are not infectious. They cannot transmitted from one person to another.
Caused by the following:
a)Deficiency of nutrients
–Rickets caused by deficiency of calcium or vitamin D.
–Acute malnutrition, include
Obesity: caused by overeating.
Marasmus: caused by low carbohydrate intake.
Kwashiorkor: caused by low protein diet.
b)Environmental pollutants such as smoke or harmful radiation.
–Lungs cancer.
–Liver cancer
–Skin cancer
c)Presence of chemicals.
–Skin cancer.
–Lungs cancer.
d)Disorders
–Sickle-cell anaemia caused byGenetic disorder
–Diabetes caused by insulin disorder
–Athma.
DIABETES
Disease: Diabetes
It is caused by insulin disorder.
Risk factors
–Family history of diabetes.
–Obesity
–Elderly.
–Unhealthy eating.
Symptoms of diabetes
–Prolonged fatigue.
–Weight loss.
–Excessive thirst.
–Poor healing of wounds.
–Frequent urination.
–Extreme hunger.
ICKETS
Disease: Rickets
It is caused by deficiency of Calcium or vitamin D.
Risk factor
–Inappropriate complementary feeding process during young age.
–Prolonged breast feeding without supplementary feeding.
Symptoms
–Bone pain or tenderness.
–Muscle weakness.
–Bowed legs or knock knees.
–Muscle spasms.
Effects
–Bone deformities.
Prevention/control measures:
–Adequate intake of foods rich in vitamin D and calcium.
–Exposure to morning and evening sunshine.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
ACUTE MALNUTRITION
Disease: Acute malnutrition includes Kwashiorkor, Obesity and Marasmus.
Caused by low protein, low carbohydrate intake, unbalanced diet and overeating.
Risk factors
–Infection
–Poverty
–Lack of nutrition knowledge.
–Teenage pregnancy that may lead to under weight babies.
–Family norms.
Symptoms
–Swollen abdomen.
–Reddish hair.
–Change of skin colour.
–Weight loss.
–Swelling of knees.
–Loss of appetite.
Effects
–Retardation of body and brain.
Prevention/control measures
–Adequate intake of protein.
–Balanced diet.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
CANCER
Disease: Cancer
Causes of Cancer
–Caused by abnormalities in the genetic material as a result of mutations or due to
carcinogens such as tobacco, smoke, radiations, chemicals, and infectious agents.
–Some cancer are caused by:
Viruses for example Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) which cause cervical cancer.
Chemical radiation for example Skin cancer.
Risk factor
–Family history of cancer.
–Prolonged low consumption of fruits and vegetables.
–Chronic infections of diseases such as Hepatitis B.
–Exposure to harmful radiations such X-rays.
–Having many sexual partners.
–Exposure to chemicals containing ingredients of mercury, lead and cadmium.
–Ingesting food contaminated with toxins such as afflatoxins.
Symptoms
–Unusual swellings (tumours), bleeding, severe painand ulcers.
–Enlarged liver and lymph nodes.
–Coughing.
–Weight loss.
–Poor appetite.
–Excessive sweating.
Effects
–Damage to lung, prostate gland, breast, cervix, and blood (Leukemia).
–Severe pain, loss of organ.
–May lead to death.
Prevention/control measures
–Avoid getting into contact with carcinogens, for example tobacco smoke and radiations.
–Vaccination, for example HPV and Hepatitis B.
–Healthy life style.
–Wear protective gears when using chemicals such pesticides.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
GLAUCOMA
Disease: Glaucoma
Glaucoma caused by high pressure in the eyes.
Risk factor
–Older age.
–Family history of glaucoma.
–Internal structure of the eye.
–History of diabetes.
Symptoms
–Eye pain
–Blurred vision, and
–Seeing cycles of light around bright lights.
STIs, STDs, HIV and AIDS
STIs–Stands for Sexually Transmitted Infections.
STDs –stands for Sexually Transmitted Diseases.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Are infections that are transmitted from an infected person to another person who is not
infected,mainly through sexual intercourse
Note:
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) first begin as Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).
An infection occurs when pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, protozoans, fungi, and worms
invade the body.
–Not all STIs turn into STDs.
Examples of STIs and STDs are:
–Gonorrhoea
–Syphilis
–Candidiasis
–Genital herpes
–Trichomoniasis
–Chlamydia
How STIs and STDs are transmitted?
–Spread by unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person.
–Can also be transmitted by sharing personal items such as towels, underwears and
swimsuits.
–Also infection from mother to her child during pregnancy or delivery (birth).
Summary of some common STIs and STDs and their causes, symptoms, effects and
how to prevent or control them.
GONORRHOEA
Disease: Gonorrhoea
Causing agent of Gonorrhoea:
Caused by a gonococcus bacterium called Neisseria gonnorhoea
Mode of Transmission of Gonorrhoea
It infects the urethra in males and vagina in females, transmitted through:
–Unprotected sexual intercourse and other types of contact.
–Sharing person items such as towels, underwear, and swimsuits.
–Infection from mother to her child at birth.
Symptoms of Gonorrhoea
Gonorrhoea manifest itself after 2 –14 days inform of the following signs:
–Foul yellow discharge from the penis or vagina.
–Burning pain when urinating.
–Retention of urine in males.
–Itching in the genital parts.
–Irregular menstruation.
Effects
–Infertility.
–Swollen and painful joints.
–Complications in the reproductive system for both male and female.
Prevention/ Control measures
–Abstain from sexual intercourseor condoms can be used to reduce the infections.
–Do not share personal items such as towels, underwears, and swimsuits.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
SYPHILIS
Disease: Syphilis
This is a serious sexually transmitted disease.
Causing agent of Syphilis:
Caused by a bacterium called Treponema pallidum
Mode of transmission of Syphilis:
Syphilis is transmitted through:
–Unprotected sexual intercourse.
–Infection from a pregnant mother to the foetus in her womb.
–Blood transfusion with infected blood.
Symptoms of syphilis:
Symptoms appear in three stages
Stage 1 –occurs between 3 to 4 weeks after infection.
–Painless sore –around the sex organs or around the anus which heals and goes
unnoticed.
–A sore that disappears after a week.
Stage 2 –occurs between 8 to 14 weeks after infection.
–Fever
–Pain in joints.
–Rashes.
–Raised bumpson the skin.
–Swollen lymph nodes.
Stage 3 –occurs 2 years after infection.
–In this stage the effects of syphilis are noticed.
Effects
–Serious damage to body partssuch asthe heart, digestive system, bones, teeth, eyes
and nervous system by the bacteria.
–Mental instability.
–Blindness.
–Stillbirth babies.
–Hearing problems.
–Can lead to death.
revention/Control
–Abstain from sexual intercourse.
–Use unscreened blood for transfusion.
–Testing and treating pregnant women.
–Seek immediate medical treatment: Syphilis is cured using antibiotics such as penicillin
and other medicines.
CANDIDIASIS (THRUSH)
Disease: Candidiasis
It caused by yeast-like fungus called Candida albacans.
It affects the genital organs of women and men.
Mode of transmission
–The fungus is usually transmitted through sexual intercourse (unprotected sexual
intercourse).
–Sharing personal items such as towels, underwear, and swimsuits.
–Poor personal hygiene.
Symptoms of candidiasis
–In women vaginal candidiasis causes itching and burning sensation of the vagina.
–It is accompanied by thick white discharge from the vagina which does not smell.
–Thick white patches in the mouth.
–Inflammation of the glans penis.
–Skin rashes.
Effects: Infection of the blood stream.
Prevention/Control measures
–Abstain from sexual intercourse.
–Do not share personal items such as towels, underwear, and swimsuits.
–Improve personal hygiene.
–Seek immediate medical treatment:-treatmentis by use of anti-fungal drugs.
GENITAL HERPES
Disease: Herpes
Genital herpes is caused by a virus called Herpes simplex.
Mode of transmission
Genital herpes is usually transmitted by sexual intercourse.
Herpes is a contagious and spread also by kissing and contaminated needles and syringes.
Symptoms of Genital Herpes
–Recurrent fever.
–Ulcers or blisters around the penis or vagina.
–Pain in or around the genital organs.
–Headache.
Effects of Genital Herpes
–Recurrent painful ulcers.
–For pregnant women can lead to stillbirth.
Prevention/Control
–Abstain from sexual intercourse.
–Medical treatment for both partners evenif one has no symptoms.
RICHOMONIASIS
Disease: Trichomoniasis
It is caused by a protozoan called Tichomonas vaginalis
Mode of transmission
–It is spread by sexual intercourse.
–It is spread by sharing personal items such as towels, underwear, and swimsuits.
Symptoms of Trichomoniasis
–Frothy, smelly yellow discharge from the vagina.
–Vagina itching.
–Pain when urinating.
–(Men usually show nosymptoms)
Effects ofTrichomoniasis
–A baby with low birth weight.
–Premature birth.
–Complication in the reproductive system for both males and females.
Prevention/Control measures of Trichomoniasis
–Abstain from sexual intercourse.
–Do not share personal items such as towels, underwear, or swimsuits.
–Medical treatment for both partners even if one has no symptoms.
HEPATITIS B
Disease: Hepatitis B
It is caused by Hepatitis B
Mode of transmission
–It is spread by sexual intercourse.
–Blood transfusion from an infected person.
–Contaminated blades and needles.
Symptoms of Hepatitis B
–Jaundice (skin and eyes look yellowish)
–Dark tea coloured urine.
–Abdominal pain.
–Pale-coloured stool.
–Fever.
–Nausea and vomiting.
–Itching all over the body.
–Feeling tired (fatigue)
–Joint pain
Effects of Hepatitis B
–Liver damage.
–Liver cancer.
–Lead to death.
Prevention/Control measures of Hepatitis B
–Abstain from sexual intercourse.
Vaccination.
–Do not share clinical needles and blades.
–Use screened blood for transfusion.
–Seek immediate medical treatment.
CHLAMYDIA
Disease: Chlamydia
Chlamydia is caused by bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis.
Mode of transmission:
–Chlamydia spread by unprotected sexual intercourse.
–Chlamydia spread by infection from mother to child at birth.
Symptoms of Chlamydia
–Bleeding from the vagina after sexual intercourse.
–Irregular menstruation.
–Lower abdominal pain.
–Pain during urination.
–Pus discharge from the penis or vagina.
–Pain in the testicles.
–Most women show no symptoms.
Effects of Chlamydia
–Infertility.
–Complication in reproductive system for both males and females.
Prevention/Control measures of Chlamydia
–Abstain from sexual intercourse.
–Medical treatment for both partners even if one does not show symptoms.
–Regular attendance of clinic for early diagnosis and treatment.
HIV and AIDS
HIVstands for Human Immunodeficiency Syndrome.
AIDS stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome.
HIV –This is a virus (retrovirus) that causes the immune system to lose its efficiency.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus causing AIDS
–Peoplewith AIDS are vulnerable to infections and diseases because the immune system
is weaken.
–AIDS occurs when HIV positive individual develops symptoms.(A person who has been
infected is said to beHIV positive)
HIV infection as:
–HIV attacks a type of white blood cells called Helper –T cells (essential for immunity).
–After being infected with HIV, a person can remain asymptomatic for years.
–The multiplication of HIV in the blood leads to massive destruction of helper-T cells.
–This weakens the immune system and the person develops opportunistic diseases.
Note:
The helper-T cells have CD4 protein on their surface which plays an important
role in maintaining the body immune system.
Function of helper-T cells: they provide help to other cells in immune response by
recognising foreign antigens.
The depletion of helper-T cells leads to low CD4 cell count. Normally CD4 count
gives an indication of the strength of the immune system and its capability to
produce natural defense against infections.
Opportunistic Infections
Are infections that occur when the body immune system of an individual is weakened.
Examples of Opportunistic infections are:
–Tuberculosis (TB)
–Severe diarrhoea
–Skin cancer (Kaposi’s sarcoma)
–Skin rashes.
–Pneumonia.
HIV is found in body fluids of infected people, mostly blood, semen, vaginal secretions
and amniotic fluid.
Sweat, saliva andtears have low amount of the virus, unless they contain blood.
Modes of Transmission of HIV
HIV canbe spread by:
–Having unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person.
–Blood transfusion from an infected donor.
–Organ transplant from an infected donor.
–An infected mother to her child during pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding.
–Using unsterilized surgical or skin piercing instruments such as scalpels, needles, and
circumcision blades that have been contaminated with blood containing HIV.
–Sharing toothbrushes, shaving blades or nailcutters with an infected person.
tages of HIV and AIDS
There are four (4) stages of HIV and AIDS
1.Primary stage or window stage
–This stage is accompanied by a flu-like illness.
–The HIV test is negative and a person looks healthy.
2.Asymptomatic stage
–At this stage a person still looks healthy and does not show symptoms.
–Yet the HIV test will show positive results.
3.Symptomatic stage
–This stage is characterized by severe damage to the immune system.
–At this stage some symptoms of AIDS are visible.
4.Full-blown stage
–In this stage, one gets various opportunistic infections and diseases.
–A person becomesvery ill and weak.
The symptoms of AIDS include
–Loss of body weight, about 10% in twelve months.
–Persistent fever that lasts longer than a month.
–Painless flat hard lumps growing on the skin or in the mouth.
–Diarrhoealasting longer than a month.
–Coughing for more than a month.
–Itchy rashes on the skin.
–White layer in the mouth and throat (oral thrush).
–Swollen lymph nodes, especially in the neck and armpits.
–Shortness of breath, gradually getting worse.
–Genital rashes.
Effects of HIV and AIDS
The effects of HIV and AIDS include:
–Reduced labour and production force.
–Families spend a lot of money to treat patients with HIV and AIDS. This money would
have been used for other needs such as food, and education.
–Increase number of orphans, thus adding a burden to relatives and the society.
–Stress, stigma, and discrimination to some victims of HIV and AIDS.
–High cost of treatment and purchase of drugs incurred by the government.
–Reduced life expectancy.
Note:-
People may have STIs or HIV and yet show no symptoms. Only clinical tests can confirm
whether a person is infected or not.
PeopleLivingWith HIV and AIDS(PLWHA)suffer from opportunistic diseases, for example:
a)Respiratory diseases –such as Pneumonia and tuberculosis.
b)Brain infections leading to mental confusion, severe headache, and fits (seizures)
c)Stomach or gut infections leading to severe diarrhoea lasting for weeks.
d)Skin cancer such as Kaposi’s sarcoma.
Prevention and control measures of HIV and AIDS
(a)Abstain from sexual intercourse.
(b)Use sterilized instruments during surgery and delivery.
(c)Wear disposable gloves when touching other people’s body fluids.
(d)Only screened blood and organs should be used for transfusion and transplant
respectively.
e)Do not share toothbrushes and shaving blades.
(f)Avoid sharing underwear and towels.
(g)PLWHA should adhere to advice from medical practitioners to avoid further
transmission.
(h)PLWHA should be given anti-retroviral drugs (ARVs) which help to slow down the
progression of the disease.
(i)Pregnant women should attend pre-natal clinics where they can be given drugs to
prevent mother-to-child transmission.
(j)Provision of PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) within 72 hours following exposure to
prevent HIV infection.
AIDS, RESPONSIBLE BEHAVIOURS, AND RISKY SITUATIONS (BAD LIFESTYLES)
Lifestyle is the way a person or group of people lives.
–This includes patterns of social relationships, consumptions, entertainment and dress.
–A lifestyle typically reflects an individual’s attitudes, values, or world view.
Now days, a number of life style emerged some of them are:
a)Good to learn.(responsible behaviors)
b)But others are bad –contribute a lot in bringing about Moral decay.
Examples of Bad lifestyle (irresponsible behaviours) and Risky situations include
–Engaging in irresponsible sexual behavior.
–Peer pressure influence -having immoral friends who pressure others into bad
behaviours such as sexual intercourse, drug abuse, and alcoholism.
–Engaging in bad habits such as drinking alcohol, smoking marijuana, and using other
narcotic drugs such as heroin and cocaine.
–Failing to report sexual abuse or rape.
–Staying in secluded places with members of the opposite sex or strangers.
–Sharing personal items such as towels, underwear, tooth brushes, needles, razorblades,
and swimsuits.
–Accepting favours and gifts such as money, clothes, and mobile phones from members
of the opposite sex or strangers. These people may expect sexual favours in return.
–Going out alone
–Walking in public while half naked.
–Going out alone or in the company of strangers, especially at night or visiting places
such as bars, casinos, and night clubs.
–Transfusion using unscreened blood.
–Sharing unsterilized needles and blades in health facilities or at home.
Responsible behaviours
A responsible character is formed overtime; none of us is born acting responsibly.
It is made up of our outlook and daily habits associated with feelings, thoughts, and actions.
How to avoid risky practices, situations, and behaviours
Learning to be responsible includes learning to:
–Respect and show compassion to others.
–Practice honesty.
–Develop self-control in acting on our principles.
–Maintain self-respect.
–Abstain from sexual intercourse before marriage.
–Do not share sharp objects such as needles and blades.
Avoid drinking alcohol and taking all forms of narcotic drugs.
–Keep good company. Avoid immoral friends.
–Do not accept gifts or favours from members of the opposite sex.
–Report all cases of sexual abuse such as rape.
–Avoid riskyplaces such as bars, night clubs, and casinos.
Importance of seeking health care for STIs, STDs, and Opportunistic diseases
People who suspect that they have STIs, STDs or HIV and AIDS should seek medical care as
soon as possible due to the following reasons:
(a)Early testing and treatment help to cure or slow down the development of the
infection or disease in its early stages.
(b)Proper treatment can save life and prevent long-term effects such as infertility.
(c)Healthcare professionals can give appropriate counselling on how to manage the
infections and diseases and how to avoid re-infection.
(d)Testing gives peace of mind.
It confirms whether one is infected or not, instead of worrying and guessing what the
problem could be.
(e)Proper health care reduces the chances of infecting other people.
(f)Health care professionals can give appropriate guidance on how to enhance good health
practices in order to prevent further infections and damages.
–These practices may include: proper nutrition, abstaining from sexual intercourse, and
doing regular exercises.
Care and Support for People Living With HIV and AIDS (PLWHA)
We can care and support them in the following ways:
1)Giving them a balanced diet.
2)Allowing them to rest when they feel unwell.
3)Taking them to a health facility as soon as they start developing symptoms of illness.
4)For youths, taking them to centres that provide HIV and AIDS information and medical
care.
5)Providing them with ARV drugs, which slow down the HIV progression and severity.
6)Allowing them to work and exercise if they can.
7)Behaving in a loving way towards them and not being judgemental.
8)Counselling them to stop behaviours that could worsen their condition, for example use of
narcotics or having many sexual partners.
9)Listening and helping them to copewith their conditions.
10)Helping them to keep their bodies, clothing, and bedding clean.
11)Avoid discriminating or stigmatising them in any way.
Precautions that you should take when caring for PLWHA
a)Remember to keep any wounds clean and covered.
b)Always wear disposable gloves when handling faeces, urine, blood, or vomitus and
other infectious diseases.
c)Do not touch the victim body fluids such as blood, stool, urine and vomits with your
bare hands.
d)Dispose properly vomits or bandages used when dressing wound.
e)Do not share toothbrushes and sharp objects such as razor blade and needles.
Common Ways in Which PLWHA are Stigmatised and discriminated in the society:
1.Denying them education or health services.
2.Denying them work opportunities.
3.Branding them with bad names.
4.Staying away from them.
Refusing to share utensils or rooms with them.
6.Hiding them from the public.
7.Not involving then in decision-making.
Importance of Giving care and support to PLWHA
–Gives them hope.
–Gives them good health.
–Gives them peace of mind.
–Gives them long life.
–Gives them a positive attitude for work.
Effect of Stigma on PLWHA
–Discrimination leads to depression.
–Leads to loneliness.
–Leads to loss hope.
–Leads to poor health.
–Leads to hastened death.
–Leads to poor performance at work and school.
Myths and Misconceptions about HIV and AIDS
A myth isa false belief.
Misconception is the wrong or incorrect information about something.
The following are some of the myths about HIV and AIDS
–AIDS is witchcraft and a curse.
–School girls and boys do not have AIDS.
–HIV antibody testing is unreliable.
–Showering with cold water after sex will prevent AIDS.
–AIDS can be spread through casual contact with an infected person.
–HIV is transmitted by mosquitoes.
–Old people do not have AIDS.
–Sexual intercourse with a virgin or an infant or animal will cure AIDS.
–Smart people do not have AIDS.
–HIV is the same as AIDS.
–HIV does not cause AIDS.
–A HIV infected mother cannot have children.
–HIV can only infect homosexual men and drug users.
Differences between HIV/AIDS and STIs
S/no HIV/AIDS infections STIs infections
1.They are incurableThey are curable.
2.There is no vaccine of HIV infection.Some STIs such as Hepatitis B have vaccine
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