Some Common Infectious Diseases

Polio. The causative agent of polio is a filterable virus that enters the body through the mucous membranes of the nose and digestive tract. It affects the motor nerves, causing paralysis. Early diagnosis is difficult, there is no specific treatment. The disease is more common in countries with high levels of sanitation. The use of the Salk vaccine has reduced the incidence of the disease.

Typhus. The causative agent is rickettsia, transmitted through lice and fleas. Epidemics are associated with unsanitary conditions and are common during war. Diagnosis using the Weyl-Felix reaction. There is no effective treatment. Prevention - extermination of insects and disinfection.

Syphilis. The causative agent is a pale spirochete. Transmitted sexually. There are three stages. Diagnostics using tests and Wasserman reaction. Treatment with penicillin.

Fungal diseases of the feet. The causative agent is fungal spores. Affects the skin of the feet. Diagnosis by scrapings. Treatment with local drugs. Prevention - maintaining hygiene.

Amoebic dysentery. The causative agent is an amoeba that affects the intestines. Diagnosis by stool analysis. Treatment with drugs that kill amoebas. Prevention - sanitation.

Helminthiases. Caused by tapeworms and Trichinella. Transmitted through meat. Diagnosis by stool analysis. Treatment with antiparasitic drugs. Prevention - careful processing of meat.