Communicable diseases are illnesses/infectious diseases caused by Pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi that people or animals spread to one another through contact with contaminated surfaces, bodily fluids, blood products, insect bites, or through the air. Some examples of the communicable disease include HIV, hepatitis A, B and C, measles, salmonella, measles, and blood-borne illnesses. Most common forms of spread include fecal-oral, food, sexual intercourse, insect bites, contact with contaminated fomites, droplets, or skin contact. Some communicable diseases cause only mild symptoms that disappear without treatment. Others may cause severe symptoms, or potentially life-threatening complications that vary depending on the type of infection but may include fever, cough, diarrhea, rash, fatigue, and respiratory distress.

Why we Care!

Understanding the factors contributing to the spread of communicable diseases, their impact, prevention strategies, and treatment options is essential in controlling outbreaks and reducing morbidity and mortality rates. Maintaining good health and preventing disease are important factors for a person’s quality of life. Preventable communicable, or infectious, diseases like malaria and HIV/AIDS account for millions of deaths in the world each year, especially in low-income countries. Disease prevention depends on many factors like access to medical care and supplies, infrastructure, and quality health education. Ensuring equitable access to health care resources like these is a shared global responsibility.