Deodorants and breast cancer investigated
Diseases of childhood and vaccinations on offer.
I know about some of the diseases of childhood, and that there are vaccinations on offer, but how dangerous are these diseases? How do you catch them, and what can happen if you do?
Diphtheria is caused by a bacteria and spread by coughing/sneezing. It has almost been wiped out in the UK, but it still exists in other parts of the world and is certainly on the increase now in parts of Eastern Europe. The sore throat, which starts the disease pattern, can progress rapidly to cause severe breathing problems. The heart and nervous system can be damaged. Death can occur in some cases.
Tetanus germs are found in soil. The disease is still seen in the UK and unless it is treated it can kill. The poisons that are produced from infected wounds, etc affect the muscles and can cause breathing problems. You cannot catch the disease from contact with an infected person.
Whooping Cough (Pertussis). This disease, caused by bacteria and quite often seen, is extremely contagious and spread by coughing, sneezing, etc. In babies and young children it can last for several weeks. There are long bouts of coughing, vomiting and choking attacks, which cause extreme exhaustion. Severe cases of whooping cough can be fatal.
Haemophilus influenza type b is another bacterial infection that we see quite often in the UK. It is moderately contagious and spread by coughing, sneezing, etc. Infection can cause blood poisoning (Septicaemia), infection of the skin, severe infection in the lungs and also meningitis. All of these diseases can be dangerous if not treated quickly.
Polio is caused by a virus. This attacks the nervous system and can cause permanent muscle paralysis. Death can occur if the muscles of the chest are affected. Infected persons (and also those recently immunised) have the virus in their faeces (stools). This is how the disease spreads. Routine immunisation has meant that the natural virus no longer causes cases of polio in the UK. It is still around in other parts of the world (especially India), however.
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