Bird flu virus and rare strain concept illustration. iStock
December 2024: The CDC has announced the first case of bird flu in a human in the United States. The patient, who is over 65 is currently being treated in a hospital in Louisiana and diagnosed to be in critical condition at this time.
What is Bird Flu?
Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a virus that primarily infects birds, mostly from poultry, and some strains, such as H5N1 and H7N9 can infect humans. The infection in humans can result from close contact with infected birds or contaminated environments, as well as other humans who contracted the disease; however, human infections are rare but can be severe if you get infected.
Latest Statistics
A search on December 17, 2024, came up with the following Google AI Views statement: “As of November 4, 2024, the CDC has monitored over 6,700 people who have been exposed to infected or potentially infected animals. The CDC believes the risk to the general public is low, but people who have been exposed to infected animals are at higher risk.” “As of December 13, 2024, the CDC reports:
10,718 wild birds in 51 jurisdictions with bird flu
122,960,216 poultry in 49 states with outbreaks
845 dairy herds in 16 states with outbreak.”
How to Avoid Bird Flu
Use a common sense approach and avoid direct contact with live poultry markets or farms. If you live in a rural area, chances are higher that you may come in contact with an infected bird than if you live in a city.
Also, for those who are wondering, pigeons are generally less susceptible to bird flu, as studies have indicated that pigeons are not primary carriers of avian influenza viruses. There are some rare cases, but pigeons are generally unlikely to play a significant role in spreading the disease.
You might want to be generally cautious if you are on a farm or related environment, as other animals, such as cows, can also become infected.
Precautions
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Cook Poultry and Eggs Thoroughly: Ensure chicken, turkey, and other poultry are cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
Avoid eating raw or undercooked eggs.
Monitor Travel Advisories andavoid traveling to areas with reported bird flu outbreaks.
Keep pets away from birds, especially wild or stray birds. This can go beyond birds when dealing with pets. Any animal that looks injured or dead could be dangerous for your pet if it gets near it.
While there isn’t a universal vaccine for bird flu, seasonal flu vaccines can help reduce the risk of co-infection, which can lead to new strains.
Good hygiene is always recommended no matter what disease is out there, but this goes double if you are near infected animals. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Use gloves and a mask when handling birds or poultry and even eggs.
What to Do if You Are Infected
If you suspect you’ve been exposed to bird flu or develop symptoms after contact with birds, seek medical advice promptly. Early treatment with antiviral medications may be effective.
The vaccines you should take can vary greatly depending on your age, health, and season, so here is a general guide on the most popular vaccines available and when you should take them, but we highly recommend you consult your healthcare provider to ensure you receive all the vaccines tailored to your needs.
COVID-19 Vaccine and Boosters
Don’t think that COVID-19 is over. It is still here but less potent and contagious; however, you should still consider getting the vaccine or a booster if you have already begun taking the shots. More importantly, getting the vaccine or boosters is highly recommended if you have any of the following conditions.
People aged 65 and older.
Individuals with chronic health conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immune systems, etc.).
Pregnant or breastfeeding.
Additionally, if you are a healthcare worker, caregiver, or involved in working with patients,it is also recommended to get the vaccine.
Influenza (Flu) Vaccine
Flu activity usually begins in October and peaks between December and February. It can last until May sometimes. Same as with Covid, if you are over 65, pregnant, or have health conditions, it is highly recommended to get the shot. But in general, everyone should get vaccinated.
Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Vaccine
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (the same virus responsible for chickenpox). It is a painful disease, so getting this vaccine is highly recommended. There is a slight age difference for this one. It is suggested that anyone aged 50 and older get the shot, and you should get two doses over a period of time.
How You Get Shingles
If you had chickenpox, the virus will remain dormant in your body and can reactivate later in life. It is not always the case, but why take the chance? Talk with your medical provider about getting the shingles shot.
Pneumococcal Vaccine
If you are over 65, and you are an adult with specific health conditions (e.g., chronic heart, lung, or liver disease), it is highly recommended to get the vaccine.
RSV Vaccine
The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a contagious virus that infects the lungs. It is recommended for adults 60 and older.
How to Stay Updated
Review your vaccination records with your doctor.
Follow guidelines from organizations like the CDC, WHO, or your local news and health departments.
If you didn’t get your flu shot this year, get it now! We thought that would be an excellent place to start. Now, let’s talk about some illnesses more likely to occur during winter than in the other seasons and what you can do about them. Then, we will discuss the recommended foods that can help build your immune system as an additional defense.
1. Common Cold
Image by Mojca-Peter from Pixabay
Yes, you are more likely to get a cold during winter months because viruses thrive in cooler temperatures. Additionally, people tend to spend more time indoors or in close quarters when it is cold outside. Wearing a mask is up to you, but you need to be more mindful that the risks of catching a disease are usually more prominent during the colder months.
A hospital in Kansas during the Spanish flu epidemic in 1918. Wikimedia Public Domain
In 1918, a virus spread throughout the world, later known as the Spanish Flu. Back then, the world was stunned by this disease, and millions of people died. One hundred years later, we have made tremendous strides, and the flu is not as deadly as it was. Like the common cold, the flu is more prevalent in winter for the same reasons. We still need to adhere to the precautions recommended by our medical providers. Getting a flu shot is one of the significant recommendations.
3. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
RSV is a highly contagious respiratory virus that infects the lungs, nose, and throat. Mostly among children, but adults too. It typically peaks during the colder months. It typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms but can lead to serious complications.
It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can live on hard surfaces for hours. Runny nose, coughs, sneezing, fever, and possible loss of appetite are the main symptoms.
4. Strep Throat
We all get sore throats from time to time, but if they accompany pain while swallowing, headache, and possibly fever, they are more serious and could possibly be strep throat.
Strep Throat is a bacterial infection that tends to spread more easily in indoor spaces; subsequently, in winter, the chances are higher that you can acquire it. It is more common among children and teenagers but adults can get infected as well.
5. Sinus Infections (Sinusitis)
Sinus infections can be triggered by colds or allergies, which are more common in colder months. Inflamed sinuses can cause discomfort and make it easier for infections to take hold. If you feel pressure in the ears, have nasal congestion, possible headaches or fever, you should contact your medical provider for follow up.
6. Norovirus (Stomach Flu)
Norovirus is a highly contagious gastrointestinal virus that often spreads in winter when people are in close quarters or from eating contaminated food (food poisoning), also called stomach flu. It usually starts with nausea and vomiting, but also diarrhea and possible stomach cramps. It normally lasts from 24 to 48 hours.
7. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that occurs during the winter months due to reduced sunlight exposure, which can disrupt the body’s internal clock and affect mood. There are medications for this. Additionally, some people find brighter lighting inside to be helpful.
Mary Mallon, otherwise known as Typhoid Mary, holds the title of one of history’s most notorious cases as a disease carrier. She gained infamy for being linked to multiple outbreaks of typhoid fever in the early 20th century. Mallon was born to an Irish family and worked as a cook, which is how she spread the disease when she came to the United States.
What Causes Typhoid Fever?
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Salmonella bacteria is the ultimate cause of the disease and is found in places with unsanitary conditions. It is virtually nonexistent in the United States and other developed countries, but cases remain in Africa and Asia; however, conditions were not that optimum in the United States back in the 19th century.
Typhoid fever was a severe and often deadly illness transmitted primarily through contaminated food and water. However, the concept of asymptomatic carriers—people carrying and spreading disease without showing symptoms—was not widely understood at that time.
About Typhoid Mary
Born in 1869 in Cookstown, County Tyrone, Ireland, Mallon immigrated to the United States at a young age. She worked as a cook for wealthy families in New York City, a profession that would ultimately lead to her unfortunate notoriety.
Despite never showing signs of the illness, she unknowingly spread the bacteria to numerous people through the food she prepared. The precise number of infections attributed to her is unknown, but it is believed to be significant.
How Was It Determined That It Was Mary?
The first documented case occurred in 1900 when she worked for a family in Mamaroneck, New York. Several members of the household fell ill, which was later determined to be due to typhoid fever. Investigators traced the source of the outbreak back to Mary. However, lacking a proper understanding of disease transmission, Mary was not held accountable, and she moved on to work for other families in the area.
Over the next several years, wherever Mary went, outbreaks of typhoid fever followed her. It wasn’t until 1906, during an outbreak at the Sloane Maternity Hospital in New York City, that her role as an asymptomatic carrier was established. George Soper, a sanitary engineer investigating the outbreak, discovered that Mary had worked at several affected households before the outbreak. He identified her as a likely source of the infection and attempted to have her cooperate with health authorities. Still, Mary vehemently denied being a carrier and refused to provide samples for testing.
Eventually, Soper enlisted the help of Dr. Sara Josephine Baker, a pioneering public health official, to track down Mary. After a lengthy investigation, Mary was located and apprehended. Tests confirmed that she was indeed a carrier of typhoid fever, although she remained healthy herself. Mary was placed in isolation against her will at a hospital on North Brother Island in New York City’s East River, where she would spend the next three years.
Lesson Not Learned
In 1910, Mary was released from isolation under the condition that she never work as a cook again and take precautions to prevent the spreading of the disease. However, Mary soon returned to her profession, using aliases to conceal her identity and continuing to work as a cook in various establishments throughout New York City.
In 1915, another outbreak of typhoid fever was linked to Mary, and she was once again apprehended and returned to isolation on North Brother Island, where she would spend the remainder of her life. Despite numerous appeals for release, Mary remained in isolation until her death in 1938.
Rights Violated?
The case of Typhoid Mary sparked significant public debate about the rights of individuals versus the need to protect public health. Mary herself vehemently maintained her innocence and objected to being forcibly quarantined, while health officials argued that she posed a significant risk to the public.
When Was the Disease Erraticated?
The vaccine for typhoid fever was developed in the late 19th century by Almroth Edward Wright, who made the discovery that led to the development of the first effective typhoid vaccine in 1896. This marked a significant advancement in the prevention of typhoid fever and laid the foundation for subsequent research and development in vaccines.
Conclusion
Asymptomatic individuals can pose a significant risk to others who are not infected with a disease. The story of Typhoid Mary continues to be studied and debated by historians, epidemiologists, and ethicists to this day. Her case serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of understanding disease transmission and the delicate balance between individual rights and public health.
Measles(MeV) is a highly contagious respiratory illness that typically spreads through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Measles primarily affects children, but it can occur in people of any age who haven’t been vaccinated or previously infected.
Symptoms
Photo: iStock
The symptoms of measles usually appear about 10 to 14 days after exposure and can include:
High fever
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
Tiny white spots with bluish-white centers on a red background inside the mouth (Koplik’s spots)
A red, blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body
On Its Way Back
Once considered nearly eradicated in the US and many developed countries, the disease has recently seen a surge in cases. This resurgence poses a significant public health threat, particularly to vulnerable populations like young children.
A Disease We Thought We Conquered
Maculopapular rash on the abdomen after 3 days of measles infection
Before widespread vaccination campaigns were initiated, measles was a common illness mainly affecting children. In the United States alone, an estimated 3-4 million cases occur annually, resulting in hundreds of deaths. However, the introduction of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine in 1963 dramatically changed the landscape of these diseases. By 2000, measles was declared eliminated in the US, meaning continuous transmission was no longer occurring.
Why Measles is Back
The resurgence of measles is attributed to several key factors:
Decreased Vaccination Rates: Vaccine hesitancy, fueled by misinformation and mistrust in science, has led to declining vaccination rates in some communities. This creates pockets of susceptible individuals where the virus can quickly spread. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated this issue, disrupting routine vaccinations and lowering overall vaccination rates.
Global Travel: Measles is still prevalent in many parts of the world. Travelers infected with the virus can quickly bring it into countries with lower vaccination rates, sparking outbreaks.
Waning Immunity: The effectiveness of the measles vaccine weakens over time. Booster shotsare crucial for long-term protection, but some individuals may neglect getting them.
The Impact of the Resurgence
The return of measles is concerning for several reasons:
Serious Complications: Measles is not a benign illness. It can lead to severe complications like pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death. These complications are dangerous for young children and those with compromised immune systems.
Outbreaks: When vaccination rates fall below a critical threshold (around 95%), “herd immunity” (those areas where the diseases have been mostly eradicated) weakens. The virus can easily spread through a community, even infecting vaccinated people.
Strain on Healthcare Systems: Measles outbreaks can significantly burden healthcare systems, requiring hospitalization for some patients and diverting resources from other critical medical needs.
The Importance of Vaccination
Photo by Frank Merino from Pexels
Many of us, especially if we live in New York State, probably don’t remember getting a measles vaccine when we were young, but rest assured we did! It is mandatory in New York State; however, that does not mean we won’t get it again. According to experts, the chances are unlikely that you will acquire it, but even if you do, your symptoms will be much milder than someone who wasn’t vaccinated. The best advice would be to talk to your doctor and see if you need a booster shot.
The good news is that measles is an entirely preventable disease through vaccination. The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective, offering long-term protection against measles, mumps, and rubella.
Here’s what you can do:
Get Vaccinated: Ensure you and your family are up-to-date on your MMR vaccinations. Consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
Educate Yourself: Seek reliable information about vaccine safety and effectiveness from reputable sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the World Health Organization (WHO).
Advocate for Vaccination: Encourage others to get vaccinated and dispel myths or misinformation surrounding vaccines.
By working together to increase vaccination rates, we can prevent the spread of measles and protect ourselves and our communities from this potentially devastating disease.
Alaskapox is a recently discovered virus from the orthopoxvirus genus family (viruses obtained by human contact with animals). The disease is mainly known for causing skin lesions.
The Alaska Department of Health sent out a notice of the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) epidemiologist Julia Rogers, who has been assigned to the Alaska Division of Public Health, stated, “Orthopoxviruses are zoonotic viruses, meaning that they circulate primarily within animal populations and occasionally spill over into humans.”
While it shares similarities with other orthopoxviruses like the variola virus (smallpox) and monkeypox, Alaskapox is still a mystery, with only a handful of cases reported.
Alaskapox Cases
The first individuals to acquire the disease were in Fairbanks, Alaska, in 2015. Since then, only seven other cases have been documented as of February 2024, and all of them are in Alaska, most notably in the city of Fairbanks, which is perplexing.
Symptoms and Treatments
Symptoms typically involve one or more skin lesions resembling bumps or swelling accompanied by swollen lymph nodes. Additionally, joint or muscle pain may accompany it. Some cases involve the lesion persisting for six months or more, while others are resolved within weeks.
So far, there has been only one fatality in 2023, but this was an individual with an underlying health condition who succumbed to the virus. No specific treatment exists, and recovery relies on the body’s immune response, indicating that those with more healthy immune systems stand a better chance of recovering early.
Ongoing Research
Much research is required, but scientists suspect small mammals like voles and flying squirrels might be carriers, although the transmission process between animals and humans is unclear. While close contact seems a possibility, further investigation is still needed.
Also, the extent of the virus’s geographic distribution and potential for broader spread is undetermined.
Preventive Measures
Given the lack of current information, practicing general hygiene as we did with COVID-19 is recommended, especially in Alaska. Frequent handwashing and avoiding contact with sick animals remains prudent, and handling wild animals or keeping them as pets is not recommended. If you experience unexplained skin lesions, particularly if you’ve been in areas where Alaskapox is known to occur, consult your doctor promptly!
Looking to the Future
Continued research is crucial to understand the virus’s biology, transmission dynamics, and potential for wider spreading of the disease, and developing diagnostic tools and potential treatments would be vital for effective management. Public health awareness campaigns educating individuals about Alaskapox and preventive measures should be enacted.
Summary
Like other diseases, scientists suspect Alaskapox was acquired through animal contact; however, the virus appears rare. At least at this time, vigilance and ongoing research are crucial to ensure preparedness for future outcomes. Consult your healthcare provider or local public health department for accurate and up-to-date information if you have concerns.
While the virus remains a mystery, ongoing research will undoubtedly contribute to better preventative care and lead to a solution, such as a vaccine. We have to wait and see!
Sarcoidosis is a rare disease that can affect multiple organs within the body—characterized by the formation of small abnormal masses known as granulomas, which are part of thebody’s immune system.
Wikipedia CC
This condition can impact various organs, leading to a variety of symptoms. Although the precise cause of sarcoidosis remains elusive, researchers believe it involves an abnormal immune response, but that is not conclusive.
In one case, a 55-year-old man who has a strong immune system was diagnosed with the disease. An MRI found he has lymph nodesin his lungs, causing him to run out of breath by just walking up a flight of stairs. Although this condition is not fatal, the question arises how a physically fit individual be infected with the disease? More studies are needed.
Granulomas – The Explanation
As mentioned, one of the primary trademarks of sarcoidosis is the development of granulomas, a tight cluster of cells to fight off an infection or foreign substance commonly known as inflammation.
Granuloma development can be caused by pathogens, damaged cells, toxic compounds, and other conditions that infect the body. This inflammation can form in organs such as the lungs, lymph nodes, skin, eyes, heart, liver, and nervous system. The distribution of granulomas throughout the body contributes to the variability in symptoms and clinical manifestations.
This organ is the most commonly affected by sarcoidosis disease, and pulmonary symptoms are among the most prevalent. Individuals may experience persistent cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain. In some cases, the ailment may advance to pulmonary fibrosis, a condition that results in the scarring of lung tissue, compromising respiratory functions.
Skin
Rashes and lesions are common symptoms of this disease. The manifestations on the skin can vary in appearance and include painful red nodules. Lupus pernio is one of these manifestations that can cause potential disfigurement. It is not essentially painful, but if other organs are affected, other symptoms could occur.
Heart and Nervous System
Cardiac sarcoidosis is a rare form of the disease, but it is concerning for individuals who have it as it can lead to cardiac complications. Studies have shown that cardiac sarcoidosis occurs in approximately 5-25% of people with sarcoidosis. However, it is a bit harder to diagnose since the developing symptoms are common with other heart-related ailments, such as arrhythmia.
Individuals who believe they may have this form of sarcoidosis should confer with their cardiologist regularly.
Treatments
Corticosteroids, the term used to group anti-inflammatory medications, are the most commonly prescribed drugs to reduce immune activity. Prednisone is one of the most popular meds prescribed in this group. A spray may be prescribed for those with pulmonary (lung) sarcoidosis.
Conclusion
Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disorder that can affect various organs but is most commonly found in the lungs. The exact cause is unknown, but many medical researchers believe it involves an abnormal immune response.
Other factors may be from inheritance, and scientists are not ruling out environmental triggers, such as exposure to certain chemicals or infectious agents.
Research is ongoing to find the specific causes of this disease. Regular monitoring and medical follow-ups are crucial for individuals with this rare condition.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) (RSV) is a widespread and contagious respiratory virus that infects the lungs and breathing passages. Children under two years old and seniors over 65, and individuals with weakened immune systems are most vulnerable.
The Details
RSV usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but the virus can be serious, especially for infants and older adults. It is the most common cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia (infection of the lungs) in children younger than 1 year of age. Similar to Covid-19, it can spread through the air, from contact with secretions (such as saliva, mucus, and tears), or contact with contaminated objects and surfaces.
While many cases of RSV are mild and cause no more than a few days of coughing and a runny nose, some cases can be more severe and lead to serious complications, especially for children. It is important to understand the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of RSV to recognize the virus and get appropriate medical care.
How Serious is RSV?
A child with Respiratory Syncytial Virus with an inhaler. Children are most susceptible to RSV. Photo: iStock
If you are exposed to RSV as an adult, you might have a bout of coughing and a runny nose and feel like you have the flu, but babies and young children could become ill to the point of hospitalization. They can be at risk for serious health problems and even death if they get infected. In fact, RSV causes more deaths in children under one year old than any other type of infection.
According to a recent study, one in every fifty children dies from this disease in low-income and middle-income countries. At this age, the immune system is still developing, and babies are at greater risk for serious complications from the infection.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually appear about four to six days after acquiring the infection. If you are an adult you most likely will have just mild cold-like symptoms.
These symptoms may include:
A cough that may or may not produce sputum (phlegm)
Runny nose
Asthma or wheezing
Shortness of breath
Hard time sleeping
Fever
Diagnosis
If you have these symptoms or others, your doctor will likely ask about your medical history, but he/she will be unlikely to order any tests because there is no specific diagnosis for RSV.
To rule out other conditions and determine the best course of treatment, your physician may order tests such as a blood test, chest X-ray, or sputum (phlegm) cultures. These tests are usually done only if you have a child that is younger than two months old or if you have a complicated or severe case of RSV.
Complications
In severe cases, there may be a few complications that can occur.
Breathing Problems: RSV can cause wheezing, a whistling sound in the lungs (stridor), rapid breathing, and slow or irregular heart rate. In severe cases, these breathing problems can require treatment in the hospital, including a breathing tube (intubation).
Pneumonia: If you have significant difficulty breathing and have a high fever, you may have a bacterial infection in the lungs, which can develop as a complication of RSV. Bacterial pneumonia can be severe and needs to be treated with antibiotics.
Swallowing Problems: Since the respiratory and digestive systems are physically close together, RSV can also affect the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. If a baby or young child with RSV develops significant sputum in their throat, they may have trouble swallowing and aspirating (taking in) their saliva and mucus. Esophagitis can occur in both breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding infants. If recognized early and treated, most cases can be resolved without complications.
Treatment of RSV
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There is no specific treatment. Instead, doctors support and treat the symptoms as they arise. If you have severe or life-threatening issues, you may need to be hospitalized to get more focused care.
For milder symptoms, take the following steps to support your body and allow the virus to pass without complications. Rest as needed. If you are not breastfeeding, it is best to rest for a few days.
Drink plenty of fluids. You can take in fluids by drinking water, juice, or sports drinks. You may also want to take in electrolytes through gels or packs. Avoid drinking carbonated beverages, as these can lead to increased vomiting. Take a pain reliever as needed for any coughing or pain. Ask for help with childcare and housekeeping.
There is no way to completely prevent RSV. However, taking steps to prevent the transmission of the virus can help reduce the risk of getting infected. The list below has been stated previously in other articles on respiratory diseases, but it never hurts to reiterate!
Wash hands regularly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoid touching your face and then touching your baby. This includes coughing and sneezing into your elbow, not your hands.
Avoid close contact with infants who have RSV.
Avoid crowds, especially if you are breastfeeding.
Avoid places with poor air quality.
RSV in Infants and Young Children
As mentioned, infants and young children, RSV can cause serious illness and even death. Babies under two months of age are at the highest risk for complications from RSV, including death.
The following signs may indicate that your child has RSV and should be checked by a doctor:
Increased breathing rate or difficulty breathing
Coughing that produces thick or colored sputum
Poor feeding (e.g., appearing lethargic or sleepy, not feeding well, looking irritated or stressed when feeding)
Blue or purple coloring of hands and feet
Poor weight gain. If your child has any of these symptoms, you should contact your doctor immediately to discuss their illness and get medical advice.
When to Seek Medical Care
If you have any symptoms of RSV, particularly if you are breastfeeding and have an infant, it is essential to contact your doctor. If your child has severe symptoms, you should seek medical care. If your child is under two months old and has any of the following symptoms, they should be seen by a doctor: Breathing difficulty, high fever, or poor weight gain.
Outlook
It is important to rest and drink plenty of fluids to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms. In some cases, people with RSV can develop pneumonia. If someone develops pneumonia, they may need antibiotics. If the infection spreads to the bloodstream, some people will need to be hospitalized and may need antibiotics to treat it.
If your child has RSV, it is best to rest and take care of yourself as well. Taking good care of your health can help you take better care of your child.
If you were born between 1947 and 1957, you may have been exposed to a different type of RSV as a child. The infection was less common and often more severe, with a higher risk of complications and death. While you will have immunity to the type of RSV that is more common today, you may be at risk for a severe infection if exposed to the older type.
Speak to your medical provider if you have any questions or symptoms similar to those mentioned here.
Map of areas affected by the Black Death within the years 1346 – 1353. Photo: Wikimedia Public Domain
The Black Plague, also known as the Black Death and Bubonic plague was a pandemic that spread across Europe and other parts of the world during the mid-14th century.
This pandemic is estimated to have killed between 75 – 200 million people worldwide, making it one of the deadliest diseases in human history. Today, we have many more tools to prevent and treat infectious diseases, such as vaccinations, antibiotics, and improved sanitation.
Causes of the Pandemic
Yersinia pestis – the bacteria that caused the Black Plague. Photo: Wikipedia CDC Public Domain
One of the most common reasons why the Black Plague spread so quickly was due to how society was structured at the time.
Large populations were congregating in unsanitized urban areas and subsequently, this provided a greater opportunity for the disease to be transmitted. How people lived and interacted with each other was also an important factor.
Additionally, poor hygiene and lack of food created an environment in which this illness could easily spread. Things like trade routes and the general migration of people also served as key factors in the transmission of the plague.
Origins of the Black Plague
illustration of The Great Plague of London in 1665. The last major outbreak of the bubonic plague was in England.
The plague started in Asia and then quickly spread to Europe via the Silk Road trading route. From there, the disease moved westward, reaching the British Isles in 1348.
It had already spread significantly by the time it was recorded in Western Europe. This is attributed to the large number of rats on ships and in the ports where trade routes were located. Once in Europe, the disease quickly spread throughout the continent.
The culprit was flea bites and as such, it was able to quickly propagate across populations that were near one another.
Symptoms
Because the pandemic was caused by bacteria and not by viruses, it presents distinct symptoms. Early signs of infection include headaches and fevers. The bacteria that caused the plague would then travel to the lymph nodes, causing them to swell and become inflamed.
Once they became inflamed, the bacteria would travel to the blood vessels and create more pustules and buboes (inflammation of the lymph nodes); hence the term Bubonic plague. These would appear as black spots or swellings on the skin.
The bacteria would then travel to the lungs, where it would cause pneumonia and other respiratory symptoms. The buboes would then become large and inflamed, becoming the hallmark of the plague and the most recognizable symptoms.
Treatment
Doctor with standard beak nose-case. Photo: Wikimedia Public Domain
Because no one was aware of what caused this contagion at the time, there was no effective treatment for the disease. The most common way to treat it was through the use of bloodletting.
Bloodletting was a common medical practice at the time that involved the removal of blood from the body. Other methods of treatment included hygiene, isolation, and the burning of clothes.
During this time, many doctors would don black overcoats and beak mask that was filled with substances like lavender, which they believed would keep the plague at a distance.
Social and Economic Effects
The disease had a significant social and economic impact on the world. It caused widespread death and stopped the growth of major cities and towns. This had a significant impact on the social structure of the world at the time.
Cities and towns were forced to close and remain closed. This had an impact on the social aspect of lifestyles during this period. The lack of trade was also a significant factor and trade routes that connected China and Europe were significantly impacted. This had an effect on the economy of the time and how goods were transported and traded.
Long-Term Impact
This bacterial disease led to the creation of quarantine protocols and the early development of modern medicine. It also led to the development of new social and economic systems. There was an increased emphasis on sanitation, hygiene, and the need for better ways of treating patients with infectious diseases.
A new social structure was eventually created. There was a rise in religious groups and new forms of governance. The world was forced to grow in new and different ways.
The End of the Black Plague
It is believed to have ended in Europe around the early 1700s. The exact cause of the end of this pandemic is uncertain, but it is widely believed that there have been multiple factors that contributed to its end.
For example, improved hygiene and sanitation would have reduced the spread. The geographic location and climate of Europe would also have played a role in limiting its spread.
Additionally, developments in modern medicine can’t be ruled out and increased research and development of antibiotics would likely have helped to stop the plague from spreading.
How the Plague Changed History
Trade between major cities was stopped. There was also a significant increase in religious piety and the creation of new religious orders. This led to an increased focus on the afterlife and the creation of new art forms. There was also an increase in the focus on moralistic literature. The Plague also resulted in introduction new methods of modern medical practices. As the pandemic ended, the medical community was able to learn more about the disease and develop new ways of treating it.
Summary
The Black Plague was one of the most devastating pandemics in human history. It caused widespread death and suffering across Europe and beyond, and its effects can still be seen in society today.
The pandemic was caused by a bacterial infection that led to the formation of buboes and pustules on the skin. There was no effective treatment for the disease. It was transmitted via the fleas and body lice of rats.
This contagion quickly spread to major cities and towns and as it prorogated throughout the continents, it caused significant death rates, resulting in a significant social, economic, and long-term impact.
Ironically, the plague changed the course of history by introducing new methods of modern medical practices and advancements in medical science.
The flu is similar to the common cold but has more severe symptoms. Its similarities also match that of Covid. Sometimes it is difficult to tell them apart since the symptoms of these illnesses affect the nose, throat, and lungs.
Doctors can diagnose if you have the flu and not Covid.The process is similar to a Covid test where they would swab your nose with a cotton wad. Many medical facilities will be able to get the result within 15 minutes.
The flu, also known as the influenza virus, is a serious infectious disease that affects thousands of people worldwide each year. While its symptoms can range from mild to severe, it can be potentially life-threatening for some, especially those who are immune compromised.
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent and treat the virus, and understanding what this disease is, how it spreads, and which symptoms to look out for can help protect you, so let’s delve into what exactly the flu is and what we can do to prevent getting it. This applies to Covid as well.
What is the Flu?
Influenza is a viral infection that causes inflammation in the respiratory system. It can infect people of all ages but is most likely to cause illness among people ages 2 to 49. Its symptoms are similar to Covid, and the main difference is that the flu is part of the influencer virus, and Covid originates from the SARS-CoV-2 family, whose genetic coding differentiates itself from the flu virus.
Most people experience flu symptoms such as a stuffy or runny nose, cough, fever, headaches, muscle aches, and extreme tiredness. The illness can last several days, and most people fully recover without treatment.
As with Covid and other illnesses, those who are at high risk include children under two years old, pregnant women, people over the age of fifty, people with certain chronic illnesses, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease, and people who are immunosuppressed.
How is the Flu Spread?
As with Covid, any contact with droplets in the air (also known as “airborne transmission”) from someone with the virus can easily catch the flu. This is the most common way that people can get infected.
If a person is coughing or sneezing into his/her hands and touches door handles, computer keyboards, phones, or other common surfaces and then you touch these objects, your hands would most likely be infected. If you touch your mouth or nose without washing your hands first, you most likely will contact the disease.
That said, scientists are not sure how long the virus lasts on surface areas, but studies have shown it can remain infected for 24 – 48 hours, so it is always a good idea to periodically disinfect common items touched in the house and to disinfect your hands after touching common items outside.
It can begin with feeling under the weather that lasts one to two days. Depending on the person, the symptoms can be mild to severe. Children can also have diarrhea and vomiting with flu symptoms. Additionally, you may have a high fever, headaches, muscle aches, and fatigue.
People with the flu can transmit the virus to others from one day before symptoms begin until at least three days after symptoms begin. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should contact your doctor because of the uptick of viral and bacterial respiratory infections that are occurring these days, especially among children.
Getting a vaccination is the best way to prevent the flu. Antibodies won’t do it because it is a virus. The best time to get vaccinated is in the fall before flu season sets in. You should get a flu shot every year, even if you don’t think you’ve been exposed.
Vaccination not only prevents the flu, but it also reduces the risk of passing it to others. This is especially important during flu season when you’re more likely to come into contact with someone who has it.
You should also take other steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu, including (and this applies overall for general health and safety):
Wash your hands frequently. This is one of the best ways to prevent its spread.
Eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
Drink lots of fluids. 100% fruit and vegetable juice are great immune boosters.
Stay home when you are sick. The flu is highly contagious and can easily be spread to others.
Keep your hands away from your face. Avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
Avoid touching common surfaces when possible. This will help reduce the risk of spreading germs and bacteria.
Get plenty of rest. Resting when you are sick will help your body fight the infection faster.
Juice loaded with vitamin C is a great source for keeping your immune system healthy.
What Treatments Are Available?
The flu usually goes away by itself. Your physician will prescribe rest and over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to reduce your fever and ease discomfort.
Are There Complications of the Flu?
Serious complications are rare but include bacterial infections, bronchitis, or pneumonia. You should speak with your doctor if you notice worsening symptoms or additional symptoms or if your symptoms have not improved after a few days.
Depending on the severity of your infection and the risk of complications, you may be prescribed antibiotics to treat the bacterial infection. If you have an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes, asthma, or heart disease, you may be at higher risk of complications.
How Long Does the Flu Last?
This depends on the person. The average time you will be ill is one to two weeks. However, you should continue to practice good hygiene and hand-washing habits even after you’ve recovered.
Are There Long-Term Effects?
Influenza can sometimes lead to more serious complications, including pneumonia or bronchitis. In rare cases, it could lead to death, but most of the time in these cases, the patient is usually not well to begin with, so if you have an underlying medical condition, the flu can increase your risk of long-term effects.
If you get infected, you’re likely to be out of commission for a few days. Getting yourself back to health as soon as possible is the best way to avoid the longer-term effects of the flu. If you get the flu shot and still get sick, you may have been exposed to another type of flu virus.
Bird flu virus and rare strain concept illustration. iStock
