Common Communicable Diseases In The USA
Communicable diseases are those that can be transmitted from one person to another. In the United States, several communicable diseases are commonly encountered. As a USRN it will be important for you to be aware of them. Here’s a list of some of the most common ones:
1. Influenza (Flu)
Description: A contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches, and fatigue.
Transmission: Spread through droplets from coughs and sneezes or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus.
2. Common Cold
Description: Caused by various viruses, primarily rhinoviruses. Symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, and sneezing.
Transmission: Spread through droplets from coughs and sneezes or by touching contaminated surfaces.
3. COVID-19
Description: Caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Symptoms can range from mild (fever, cough, fatigue) to severe (difficulty breathing, loss of taste or smell). Long-term effects may include chronic fatigue and respiratory issues.
Transmission: Spread through respiratory droplets, aerosols, and contact with contaminated surfaces.
4. Tuberculosis (TB)
Description: A bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs. Symptoms include persistent cough, chest pain, and weight loss.
Transmission: Spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
5. Strep Throat
Description: Caused by Streptococcus bacteria, leading to a sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
Transmission: Spread through respiratory droplets or by touching contaminated surfaces.
6. Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu)
Description: Inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by viruses (e.g., norovirus, rotavirus) or bacteria. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Transmission: Spread through contaminated food, water, or surfaces.
7. Hepatitis A, B, and C
Description: Viral infections affecting the liver. Hepatitis A is typically spread through contaminated food or water, while Hepatitis B and C are spread through blood or bodily fluids.
Transmission: Hepatitis A via fecal-oral route; Hepatitis B and C through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids.
8. Chickenpox (Varicella)
Description: Caused by the varicella-zoster virus, leading to an itchy rash and flu-like symptoms.
Transmission: Spread through respiratory droplets and direct contact with the rash.
9. Measles
Description: A highly contagious viral disease characterized by a rash, fever, and cough.
Transmission: Spread through respiratory droplets and direct contact with nasal or throat secretions.
10. Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Description: A highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. Symptoms include severe coughing fits and a whooping sound.
Transmission: Spread through respiratory droplets.
11. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Description: Includes infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and human papillomavirus (HPV). Symptoms vary but can include genital sores, discharge, and pain.
Transmission: Spread through sexual contact or, in some cases, from mother to child during childbirth.
12. Mumps
Description: A viral infection characterized by swelling of the salivary glands, fever, and headache.
Transmission: Spread through respiratory droplets and direct contact with an infected person's saliva.
13. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
Description: Causes oral herpes (cold sores) and genital herpes. Symptoms include sores and blisters on the skin.
Transmission: Spread through direct contact with infected skin or bodily fluids.
14. Norovirus
Description: A common cause of viral gastroenteritis. Symptoms include severe vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
Transmission: Spread through contaminated food, water, and surfaces.
15. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
Description: A common virus that causes respiratory infections, especially in infants and young children. Symptoms include wheezing, difficulty breathing, and cough.
Transmission: Spread through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces.
16. Scabies
Description: A skin infestation caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, leading to itching and rash.
Transmission: Spread through prolonged skin-to-skin contact or sharing contaminated items.
17. Lice (Pediculosis)
Description: Infestation of the scalp or body by lice, causing itching and irritation.
Transmission: Spread through direct contact with an infested person or their belongings.
Prevention Measures
Vaccination: Many communicable diseases can be prevented through vaccines (e.g., measles, influenza, hepatitis).
Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing, using hand sanitizers, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
Safe Practices: Using protection during sexual activity and practicing safe food handling.
