Let us here discuss different Water borne diseases that can range from being mild to even fatal.Let’s first know the symptoms, prevention and possible treatment for Dengue:Dengue is a viral infection that spreads from mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti) to humans which breeds mainly in water collections in artificial containers.Symptoms of Dengue: Severe headache, high fever (usually around 104°F), muscle and joint pain, vomiting, rashes or bruises on the skin and pain behind the eyes are some common symptoms.How to prevent Dengue: There is no vaccine for this disease. The mosquitoes that spread dengue are active during the day time. You must wear clothes that cover as much of your body as possible, use mosquito nets while sleeping during the day, use mosquito repellants (containing DEET, Picaridin or IR3535), use coils and vaporizers and use window screens at all timesCover, empty and clean the water storage containers on a weekly basis, dispose solid waste properly, do not let any stagnant water ponds or containers in the community, as mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water, apply appropriate insecticides to outdoor water storage containers, if any.Treatment of Dengue: Though there is no specific treatment for dengue, the focus is on symptomatic treatment only. Paracetamol is often used to control pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and aspirin are avoided, as they increase the risk of bleeding. Though in some severe cases, hospitalization is also needed.Source:- 1. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dengue-and-severe-dengue

After the monkeypox outbreak in 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) has decided to bring together experts to determine if this spread is more dangerous and whether it should be declared an international emergency, as it has affected more than 10 African countries.Monkeypox, also known as mpox, is a viral zoonotic disease that spreads from animals to humans. It is caused by the monkeypox virus. Historically, it was found in Central Africa and West Africa. The first human case of monkeypox was a nine-month-old baby from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Central Africa.Monkeypox is usually a mild illness that can recover in 2-4 weeks. Symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, fatigue, and a rash with pimples and blisters that can appear on various parts of the body, including the face, palms, and groin area, and can be painful.It is transmitted through:Close contact, such as kissing, touching, or sexual contact with infected individuals.Body fluids, such as droplets from sneezing or coughing.Infected animals, especially during hunting or cooking.Contaminated towels, clothes, or bedding.It can also be transmitted from mother to unborn baby through the placenta.People with weak immune systems and those with multiple sex partners or who are sex workers are at higher risk of contracting monkeypox.The diagnosis of monkeypox is typically done using a PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) test, where swabs are taken from body fluids or skin. Getting the mpox vaccine within 4 days of exposure to an infected person can help prevent the disease.Prevention measures include:Washing hands frequently with soap and water.Avoiding close contact with infected individuals.Wearing masks and avoiding touching surfaces without disinfecting them.If you experience symptoms of monkeypox, consult a doctor to prevent further complications.Source:- 1.https://www.health.gov.au/diseases/monkeypox-mpox 2. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/monkeypox

Nipah Virus Alert in Kerala:On July 21, 2024, a 14-year-old boy in Kerala died from Nipah virus.Kerala's health minister issued a high alert throughout the state.About Nipah Virus:Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus, meaning it spreads from animals (like bats or pigs) to humans.First identified in pig farmers in Malaysia in 1999.Cases have also been reported in Singapore, Bangladesh, and India.Transmission:Through direct contact with infected animals.Consuming fruits contaminated by fruit bats.Direct contact with an infected person.Signs and Symptoms:Initial Symptoms: Fever, headache, sore throat, muscle pain, vomiting.Progressive Symptoms: Dizziness, drowsiness, difficulty focusing.Severe Symptoms (within 24-48 hours): Pneumonia, acute respiratory distress, encephalitis (brain swelling), seizures leading to coma.Incubation Period:4-14 days.Diagnosis:RT-PCR (Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction) or ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) tests on body fluids.Treatment and Prevention:No specific treatment or vaccine available.Severe cases require intensive supportive care.WHO Research and Development Blueprint has identified Nipah virus as a priority disease.Preventive measures:Clean and disinfect pig farms.Wash hands with soap and water.Prevent the movement of infected animals.Source:-1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK570576/2. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/nipah-virus

Nearly 1000 cases of Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS) has been reported by June 2024, in Japan. This infection has drawn most attention after COVID 19.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flesh eating bacteria are Group A Streptococcus(GAS) bacteria, mostly found in the throat, that usually cause sore throat and skin infections.STSS is caused when the GAS bacteria enters the body areas where bacteria are rarely found such as deep muscles and blood.Who is at risk of getting STSS?- People who are above age 65- Who recently had surgery- Who have had chickenpox, shingles, recently- Who has diabetes, and open wounds or sores- And people who drink alcohol regularlyWhat are symptoms of STSS?It starts with fever, chills, rashes, muscle pain, nausea and vomiting.It usually gets well initially and then causes acute illness which leads to low blood pressure in 24-48 hours and organ failure with increased heart rate.How is STSS treated?STSS is treated with antibiotics and intravenous fluids and other treatment options for organ failure and surgery to remove infected tissue.Source:-1. Davies H. D. (2001). Flesh-eating disease: A note on necrotizing fasciitis. The Canadian journal of infectious diseases = Journal canadien des maladies infectieuses, 12(3), 136–140. https://doi.org/10.1155/2001/8571952. Dennis L. Stevens, The Flesh-Eating Bacterium: What's Next?, The Journal of Infectious Diseases, Volume 179, Issue Supplement_2, March 1999, Pages S366–S374, https://doi.org/10.1086/513851

Cancer stands to be the 2nd leading cause of death globally. About 20 million new cases of cancer and 9.7 million deaths due to cancer were reported in 2022.Cancer generally refers to uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that destroys the normal cells and can spread in the whole body.Here are 7 early signs that your body indicates when you have Cancer:1. Rapid and Uncontrolled Weight Loss:You might experience a sudden and rapid weight loss of more than 5 kgs in a month, without doing and exercise or workout.Weight loss is not just a sign of cancer, but it can also happen due to other disease like diabetes, thyroid disorders, etc.2. Changes in Skin Appearance:Your skin may look yellow, or get red or dark in colour, develop warts, moles that gets larger, and pigmentation or discoloration as a sign of cancer.It may also feel tight, warm and itchy due to changes occurring inside the body due to increased growth of cancer cells.3. Formation of Lumps Under Skin:You might notice lumps in your breasts, or thickening of tissues under the skinThe lumps can be felt easily, if you examine your breast regularly.4. Flatulence:Flatulence or farts accompanied with pain and discomfort in stomach and last for longer period of time, and it is not caused by indigestion or any gastrointestinal issues or menstruation than, it could be a sign of cancer.5. Wounds that don't heal:If you get a cut or any wound, on your body or including the tongue, gums or cheeks which is taking a longer time to heal,Then it might indicate the sign of cancer. Because whole body starts working to fight off cancer cells and keeping such wounds as minor problems.6. Change in urine and stool:You might notice changes in urine color, smell, or find blood in urine and feel urgency to pee frequently and pain during urination. You might feel constipated or get diarrhea more often, then these can also be indicative signs of cancer.7. Fatigue:You may feel tired all the time without even doing any activities, it may also be a sign of cancer. It happens because all of the energy and nutrients we get from our food is taken by the cancer cells for their growth and we don't feel energized.Remember, these are the signs that may indicate sign of cancer but it can also be caused due to other diseases. So, it's better to get diagnosed your doctor for early treatment.Source:-1. Cancer Statistics - NCI. (n.d.). Cancer Statistics - NCI. Retrieved May 16, 2024, from https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/understanding/statistics2. Symptoms of Cancer - NCI. (2024, May 16). Symptoms of Cancer - NCI. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/diagnosis-staging/symptoms3. Scheel, B. I., & Holtedahl, K. (2015). Symptoms, signs, and tests: The general practitioner's comprehensive approach towards a cancer diagnosis. Scandinavian journal of primary health care, 33(3), 170–177. https://doi.org/10.3109/02813432.2015.1067512

Infections that occur in the gut are also referred to as gastrointestinal (GI) infections; This health problem caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites causes inflammation in the stomach and intestine, resulting in symptoms of Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, and Vomiting.7 Signs that help you recognize that your gut is not healthyModern life and altered lifestyle include many bad habits like less sleep, more stress, taking antibiotics, and eating processed and sugary foods. These affect gut health a lot, which in turn leads to unhealthy body weight and immune system. Here are some symptoms of reduced gut health:1: Upset Stomach:Diarrhea, Bloating, Constipation, Gas, and Heartburn are some signs of an unhealthy gut. The balanced gut does not struggle much in processing the consumed food and eliminating waste.2: A high-sugar diet:Eating excessive amounts of processed food and sugary foods reduces the good and diverse bacteria in your gut. Research has also found that eating too much sugar can lead to the development of inflammation throughout the body, which is a precursor to a number of diseases including cancer.Suggested Read:https://medwiki.co.in/post/auto-brewery-syndrome-when-your-gut-makes-alcohol-en3: Changes in Body Weight:If your body weight continues to change despite changing your diet and exercise habits, it could be a sign of an unhealthy gut. An unbalanced gut disrupts the body's ability to absorb nutrition, regulate blood sugar, and store fat.4: Disturbance in the sleep cycle or constant tiredness:Research has shown that not having balanced levels of gut bacteria leads to sleep disturbance which can result in you experiencing chronic fatigue. Its clear cause is not yet known but it is related to metabolic functions, inflammation, and mental health.Suggested Read:https://medwiki.co.in/post/how-your-sleep-patterns-can-impact-gut-health5: Skin Irritation:Skin conditions like psoriasis may be related to bacteria present in the gut. A low concentration of beneficial bacteria in the gut can impair the body's immune system and skin health.6: Autoimmune Conditions:An unhealthy gut can lead to systemic inflammation and impair the functioning of the immune system, which can lead to the development of autoimmune diseases in which the body tends to attack itself because the body's cells and organs are mistakenly recognized as harmful invaders.7: Food Intolerances:Food intolerances occur due to difficulty in digesting certain food items. This is different from food allergy, which is caused by a reaction in the immune system to certain foods. Research has shown that food intolerance is caused by the poor quality of bacteria present in the gut; Its main symptoms are gas, bloating, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.Have you ever wondered if your gut bacteria could help you fight off infections?Recent research has shown that the microbiome in our gut plays a significant role in our immune system.Here are 5 facts and evidence to support this claim:1. Gut bacteria help in the production of antibodies:Antibodies are proteins produced by our immune system to fight off infections. Studies have shown that gut bacteria play a critical role in the production of these antibodies.2. The gut microbiome communicates with the immune system:The gut microbiome communicates with the immune system through various channels. This communication helps the immune system recognize and fight off infections.3. Gut bacteria can protect against harmful pathogens:Certain types of gut bacteria have been shown to protect against harmful pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli.Suggested Read:https://medwiki.co.in/post/the-surprising-link-between-your-gut-health-and-your-period4. Antibiotics can affect the gut microbiome:Antibiotics are designed to kill harmful bacteria, but they can also kill beneficial bacteria in our gut. This can lead to a weakened immune system and an increased risk of infections.5. A healthy gut microbiome can boost the immune system:A healthy gut microbiome can help boost our immune system's ability to fight off infections.Gut Health Can Be Improved By Following These 8 Practices:1: Consume a Vegetarian Diet:A vegetarian diet contains certain types of prebiotic fibers which improve gut health. It has been shown that if obese people shift their diet to strictly vegetarian food items and avoid meat, eggs, and dairy products, then changes in gut microbes can reduce gut inflammation and maintain healthy body weight.2: Take Probiotics:Probiotics help keep the gut microbiome healthy; It reduces gut inflammation and eliminates intestinal problems. Probiotics are found in fermented foods. If you include kimchi, tempeh, fermented vegetables, kefir, miso, kombucha, and sauerkraut in your diet, your gut health can improve.3: Take Prebiotics:Prebiotics make probiotics tolerant to certain environmental conditions. Asparagus, Jerusalem artichoke, Bananas, Garlic, and Chicory are prebiotic-rich foods that can improve gut health when added to the diet.Suggested Read:https://medwiki.co.in/post/the-truth-about-probiotics-how-they-can-improve-your-digestion-and-overall-health-en4: Avoid Smoking:Smoking affects gut, heart, and lung health; There is also a risk of cancer. Smoking reduces beneficial bacteria and increases harmful microorganisms, which in turn alters the intestinal flora; This condition can cause inflammatory bowel disease.5: Eat Less Sugary Foods:Consuming too many artificial sweeteners and sugar can disturb the gut microbes, which is referred to as gut dysbiosis. It can also influence the individual's behavior and mental ability. Due to the effect of artificial sweeteners on the gut flora, the blood sugar level is also affected.6: Get Enough Sleep:Sleep is a very essential daily activity; Getting quality and complete sleep improves mood, and cognitive ability and also improves gut health. Disturbed sleep and irregular sleep habits have a negative impact on gut flora, thereby increasing the risk of inflammatory conditions.7: Reduce Stress:Stress disturbs the microorganisms in the intestine. Sleep deprivation, Psychological stress, Disruption in heart rhythm, and Environmental stress are a few such stressors that negatively impact gut health.8: Exercise Regularly:Regular exercise helps in improving heart health and maintaining a healthy weight. Due to this, gut health can also be improved and obesity can also be controlled.Suggested Read:https://medwiki.co.in/post/benefits-of-probiotics-the-good-bacteriaConclusion:The evidence suggests that our gut bacteria play a crucial role in fighting off infections. By maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, we can help strengthen our immune system and protect ourselves from harmful pathogens. Lack of sleep, use of antibiotics, poor diet, and stress negatively impact gut bacteria, which can lead to fluctuations in body weight, digestive problems, skin conditions, and autoimmune conditions. By recognizing the signs of an unhealthy gut and adopting lifestyle modifications such as taking prebiotics and probiotics, consuming a balanced diet, managing stress, reducing sugar intake, and regularly engaging in physical exercise, gut health can be restored and overall quality of life can be improved. Maintaining a healthy gut is essential for a strong immune system and long-term health.Source:-1. Maciel-Fiuza, M. F., Muller, G. C., Campos, D. M. S., do Socorro Silva Costa, P., Peruzzo, J., Bonamigo, R. R., Veit, T., & Vianna, F. S. L. (2023). Role of gut microbiota in infectious and inflammatory diseases. Frontiers in microbiology, 14, 1098386. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2023.10983862. Zhang, Y. J., Li, S., Gan, R. Y., Zhou, T., Xu, D. P., & Li, H. B. (2015). Impacts of gut bacteria on human health and diseases. International journal of molecular sciences, 16(4), 7493–7519. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms16047493Disclaimer:-This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment. Do not ignore or delay professional medical advice based on anything you have seen or read on Medwiki.Find us at:https://www.instagram.com/medwiki_/?h…https://twitter.com/medwiki_inchttps://www.facebook.com/medwiki.co.in/

To diagnose typhoid fever, healthcare providers typically rely on a combination of tests. These tests include:Culture Test: A sample of blood, stool, urine, or bone marrow is collected and cultured in a lab to identify the presence of Salmonella typhi bacteria. Results take 2-3 days.Antibody Test: This test checks for antibodies produced in response to typhoid bacteria by examining a blood sample. Results are usually available within a day or two.DNA Test: Detects the genetic material of Salmonella typhi in a patient's sample using PCR. Results can be obtained rapidly, aiding early diagnosis.Bone Marrow Culture: Highly sensitive for detecting Salmonella typhi, this test involves collecting a bone marrow sample under local anesthesia. Results may take a few days.Real-Time PCR: A molecular technique amplifying specific DNA sequences for early diagnosis within the first 5 days of symptoms. Results are available rapidly.Widal Test: Detecting specific antibodies against Salmonella typhi, this test may yield results within a day or two but has limitations due to inaccuracies.These tests are vital for diagnosing typhoid fever, guiding healthcare providers in determining the most effective treatment for patients.Watch our next video to know about ”Pathophysiology of Typhoid Fever!Source1:-Symptoms and Treatment | Typhoid Fever | CDC. (n.d.). Symptoms and Treatment | Typhoid Fever | CDC. Retrieved March 7, 2024, from https://www.cdc.gov/typhoid-fever/symptoms.htmlSource2:-Typhoid fever. (2024, March 8). Typhoid fever. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/typhoid-fever/diagnosis/

Typhoid fever is caused by the bacterium S. Typhi, found in the gut of infected individuals. The symptoms of typhoid fever include:It is characterized by a sustained fever (typically between 103-104°F (39-40°C) that lasts for several days.Significant weakness and fatigue due to the body's immune response to the infection.The infection can cause inflammation in the stomach, leading to pain and discomfort.It can also cause a headache due to the body's inflammatory response and the infection itself.Diarrhea or constipation, depending on the severity of the infection and the individual's response to it.In some cases, it can cause a cough, which may be due to inflammation in the respiratory system.The infection can lead to a loss of appetite, making it difficult for the body to get the nutrients it needs to fight the illness.Rash of flat, rose-colored spots: In some cases, a rash of flat, rose-colored spots may develop on the skin, particularly in the groin areas.If the infection spreads beyond the intestines, it can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.The infection can cause inflammation in the heart muscle, leading to heart failure in severe cases.Watch our next video to know about ”Typhoid Mary: The Real Spreader of Typhoid!Source:-(n.d.). Retrieved March 7, 2024, from https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/typhoid-feverDisclaimer:-This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment.Do not ignore or delay professional medical advice based on anything you have seen or read on Medwiki.Find us at:https://www.instagram.com/medwiki_/?h…https://twitter.com/medwiki_inchttps://www.facebook.com/medwiki.co.in