Viruses are microorganisms that enter into the cells of the body. They take over the structure of the cell and then redirect it to produce more viruses. Viruses can cause illnesses in humans and there are many different examples. Some viruses are vaccine preventable, while others are not. Prevention of viruses depends on the mode of transmission from person to person.
Chickenpox
This highly infectious disease spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets or through contact with an infected person's rash. The classic rash consists of red bumps that fill with fluid, burst and then crust over, says MedlinePlus. Other symptoms of chickenpox include malaise and itching. Most persons get sick for about five to ten days, and usually it does not prove severe. However, in persons that are immunocompromised or elderly, chickenpox can become severe. There is a vaccine for chickenpox available for both children and adults.
Measles
Measles results from a highly contagious viral infection that spreads from person to person. The person affected develops a rash that starts at the head and moves down the body. Other symptoms of the measles include a fever, tiredness, coughing and a runny nose. A cardinal sign of measles includes Koplik's spots, which are red spots in the mouth with bluish white centers. There is a vaccine called the MMR vaccine, which covers measles, mumps and rubella. Physicians give this vaccine to children, therefore the prevalence of measles has become lower than prior to the vaccine. KidsHealth reports that from 2000 to 2007, just an average of 63 cases per year were reported.
Meningitis
Viral meningitis, is an inflammation of the meninges or membranes covering the brain and the spinal cord. Bacteria and fungus can also cause meningitis. Sometimes viral meningitis spreads through contact with surfaces contaminated. It also spreads through saliva, mucus or feces. The virus, called enteroviruses multiplies in the digestive tract. Symptoms according to KidsHealth include fever, stiff neck, headache, vomiting, nausea and sometimes seizures. Ways to prevent meningitis include washing hands and avoiding contact with sick individuals. Proper cleansing of contaminated surfaces also proves important.
The Common Cold
Colds results from viruses. Transmission occurs through respiratory droplets and from touching contaminated surfaces. MayoClinic.com reports people have between six and ten colds a year. Most persons with a cold report coughing, sore throat, sneezing, nasal congestion and fever. Ways to prevent getting a cold include washing hands, proper respiratory etiquette and staying away from sick individuals. Over two hundred viruses can cause the common cold.
