Communicable diseases refer to medical conditions that can easily spread between individuals. Typically, infection-carrying saliva or other bodily fluids such as blood can effectively transmit such diseases. Fortunately, a few communicable diseases can be managed in various ways, and steps can be taken to minimize their transmission.
Mononucleosis
Mononucleosis leads to such symptoms as a poor appetite, drowsiness, fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, rash and sore throat. Other symptoms include rapid heart rate, nosebleeds, shortness of breath, light sensitivity, hives and yellowing of the skin.
According to MedlinePlus, mononucleosis is commonly spread through saliva and being in close quarters with infected people.
Treatment involves drinking fluids, getting rest, and taking over-the-counter acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain.
Measles
Measles is associated with such symptoms as cough, fever, bloodshot eyes, muscle pain, and a rash that is flat, itchy, solid or raised. This rash typically lasts for four to seven days. Other include a runny nose, sore throat and small white spots in the mouth that are medically known as Koplik spots.
Measles is a contagious infection that is spread though saliva droplets from the throat or nose of an infected person.
No specific treatment exists for measles, but bed rest, using a humidifier and taking acetaminophen can help manage the symptoms.
Whooping Cough
Whooping cough (pertussis) is a contagious infection affecting the respiratory system. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, fever and a dry cough. Vomiting, fatigue and a high-pitched whooping sound when breathing are the whooping cough's other characteristic symptoms.
Bacteria (pertussis) causes whooping cough, and it is spread between persons via coughing and sneezing.
Treatment involves antibiotic medications to destroy the bacteria causing the whooping cough and taking over-the-counter medications to relieve the cough.
Strep Throat
Strep throat leads to a sore throat, fever, headache, stomachache, rash, and swollen and tender lymph nodes in the neck. Strep throat can also lead to small red spots on the palate, and red tonsils.
The group A Streptococcus bacteria leads to strep throat, and it is spread between people through coughing and sneezing.
Treatment involves taking such antibiotics as amoxicillin and penicillin, and pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
