Emerging infectious ailments: Insights and techniques for prevention and management
In an period the place international health is an ever-evolving panorama, staying knowledgeable about rising infectious diseases is paramount as in accordance with scientific statistics, infectious ailments current notable threats to public well being, accounting for practically 13.7 million deaths globally, with respiratory and bloodstream infections proving essentially the most deadly. Across the course of historical past, spanning from previous pandemics like plague, smallpox and the current Covid-19 to persistent well being challenges like tuberculosis, AIDS and hepatitis, these ailments have imposed substantial scientific burdens whereas illnesses akin to malaria, flu and cholera contribute to outstanding annual statistics, underscoring the vital want for a sturdy and complete public well being infrastructure.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Divya Singh, Senior Surgeon at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and Director at Maaiya Social Change Front Foundation, shared, “With the rise of novel pathogens, the emergence of drug-resistant strains and changing disease patterns, understanding the origins and dynamics and implementing proactive measures is of utmost importance. Mitigating the dissemination of infectious diseases necessitates a comprehensive approach tailored to the disease type, transmission mode and local circumstances.”
She recommended, “Vaccination and hygiene practices are the foremost pillars for combating infectious diseases. Practicing proper hand hygiene, maintaining sanitary environments, and creating awareness about hygiene practices and disease transmission empowers individuals to fight against infectious diseases and prevent their spread. In addition to timely detection, responsive action, and robust surveillance systems, isolating infected individuals and implementing quarantine measures can collectively bolster public health resilience and foster a shield against infectious disease proliferation. Remaining up to date with the latest vaccinations and following up with the recurrent yearly vaccinations helps build herd immunity especially for the children, elderly and immunocompromised.”
Asserting that although governments have a duty of monitoring and surveillance to catch and detect rising infections, maintaining ourselves vigilant of any rising signs in our neighborhood is the duty of each citizen and members of communities. Dr Divya Singh beneficial, “Practicing ways to boost immunity and aiding the natural defense of body to fight and ward off infection will aid not just in preventing infectious diseases but long term health and higher immune tolerance too. These include exercise, proper diet, quality sleep, natural immune boosting foods and optimum vitamin, micronutrients and minerals intake.”
Bringing her experience to the identical, Dr Veena Aggarwal, Trustee at Heart Care Foundation of India, echoed, “In our dynamic global environment, emerging infectious diseases pose significant public health risks. Societal, technological and environmental shifts continually influence infectious diseases on a global scale, leading to new disease emergence and the resurgence of existing ones, often in drug-resistant forms. From historical pandemics like plague and smallpox to chronic ailments such as tuberculosis and syphilis, these diseases impose substantial clinical burdens. Malaria, sexually transmitted diseases, tuberculosis, and cholera present staggering annual statistics, emphasizing the necessity for a robust public health framework.”
She highlighted, “Recent statistics witnessed 13·7 million deaths worldwide from infectious syndromes, with respiratory infections and bloodstream infections being the deadliest. According to clinical studies, modern factors, including rapid population growth, urban migration, poverty, international travel, changes in disease-transmitting animal habitats, compromised immunity and alterations in food distribution, are chief contributors to the rise of infectious diseases. Additionally, frequent visits to clinics, hospital stays and being in close contact with healthcare professionals can also elevate the risk of hospital-acquired infections, predominantly bloodstream infections (BSI), pneumonia (e.g., ventilator-associated pneumonia [VAP]), urinary tract infections (UTI) and surgical site infections (SSI). The recent rise in incidences of antibiotic-resistant pathogens caused due to drug overuse is further aggravating the risk and severity of infectious diseases underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive understanding, proactive prevention, and effective control strategies.”
Dr Veena Aggarwal defined, “Though combating infectious diseases involves a multifaceted approach tailored to disease type, transmission mode, and local conditions, vaccination and good hygiene practices are preliminary steps toward disease control. Regular hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and covering the nose and mouth while sneezing can prevent the transmission of germs. Moreover, access to clean water and adequate sanitation facilities are critical to manage the spread and eliminate disease-causing pathogens. In addition to raising mass awareness, early detection, rapid response, and effective surveillance systems also play a significant role in infectious disease management.”
She concluded, “As new diseases continue to emerge, preemptive action is essential. Establishing vigilant public health systems, international collaboration, research, and information sharing are pivotal in addressing global infectious disease threats. Such collective initiatives hold the potential to yield novel treatments, develop requisite vaccines, and formulate suitable strategies for disease prevention and control, eventually benefiting communities worldwide. Ultimately it boils down to each one practicing one – if we keep ourselves and our surroundings clean, the world will be a more hygienic and liveable place for everyone.”