Choose an infectious disease that is currently a human health risk.
Research your topic using online sources such as the NIH, CDC, and WHO.
Write a 350- to 525-word blog entry on the disease. You are getting the word out to your chosen audience. Answer the following questions:
- Describe the cause and symptoms of the disease.
- Which populations are most susceptible to infection? How is the disease transmitted?
- Is there a vaccine or treatment available for the disease?
- Is the disease new or has it occurred in the past?
- Does the disease present a significant problem for the human population globally, or is it localized?
Format the reference consistent with APA guidelines.
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Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Infectious diseases are a continuous threat to human health globally. They are caused by various pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites and can be transmitted from one person to another. It is necessary to create awareness about such diseases and take preventive measures to control their spread.
Answer:
Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) is an infectious disease that is currently a human health risk. It is caused by the Ebola virus, which spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected animals or humans. According to the World Health Organization, the average case fatality rate of EVD is around 50%.
The symptoms of EVD include fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes bleeding, both internally and externally. The severity of the symptoms varies depending on the individual’s immune response and the strain of the virus.
The populations most susceptible to infection are those living in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene, healthcare workers, and those who have contact with infected bodily fluids or materials. The Ebola virus is transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals or animals, such as blood, urine, saliva, feces, vomit, breast milk, semen, and vaginal secretions.
Currently, there is no specific vaccine or treatment for EVD. However, supportive care can be given to reduce the severity of the symptoms and increase the chances of survival. Several investigational drugs and vaccines are in development and have been used during past outbreaks with varying degrees of success.
The Ebola virus has occurred in the past and was first identified in 1976 in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. EVD is endemic in parts of Africa, particularly in Central and West Africa. Past outbreaks of EVD have been reported in various countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Uganda.
The disease presents a significant problem for the human population globally, with sporadic outbreaks occurring over the years. However, the disease is localized to certain regions, mainly in sub-Saharan Africa, although there is always a risk of transmission through international travel.
Reference:
World Health Organization. (2021). Ebola virus disease. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/health-topics/ebola/#tab=tab_1
