SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
1-COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, has caused the most significant global epidemic since the 2009 H1N1 flu pandemic. This virus leads to a range of symptoms, including fever, shortness of breath, muscle aches, and a loss of smell. COVID-19 spreads through respiratory droplets and close contact with infected individuals. Fortunately, the development of vaccines offers hope for controlling the pandemic.
2-Clostridioides Difficile (C. diff)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) prioritize C. diff infections as a critical public health concern. This highly contagious bacterium can cause severe diarrhea and inflammation of the colon (colitis), with some cases proving fatal. C. diff is often linked to hospital stays and antibiotic usage. To prevent its spread, individuals with suspected cases, along with their caregivers, should wear gloves when handling feces and wash hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water.
3-Drug-Resistant Bacteria
The rise of antibiotic resistance in recent decades poses a significant threat.
Carbapenem-resistant E. coli can withstand even the most potent antibiotics available.
Acinetobacter is particularly dangerous for individuals with weakened immune systems or multi-drug-resistant infections.
Campylobacter may spread through undercooked poultry.
Streptococcus pneumoniae and drug-resistant Salmonella have also developed resistance, with the latter often contracted through improperly handled or cooked food.
4-Drug-Resistant Gonorrhea
Untreated gonorrhea can lead to infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease. The CDC reports that gonorrhea is now resistant to all but one remaining antibiotic, with cases increasing rapidly since 2009. Prevention measures include consistent condom use, limiting sexual partners, avoiding unprotected oral sex, and undergoing annual testing for sexually transmitted infections.
5-Measles
Measles cases in the United States have risen steadily since 2010, with a sharp increase between 2018 and 2019. Complications can include developmental delays, deafness, and even death, especially in young children. While there is no cure for measles, vaccination provides effective prevention. Consult your child’s pediatrician for immunization schedules, and discuss booster shots with your doctor if planning international travel.
6-Influenza
The influenza virus spreads easily through airborne particles or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face. While seasonal flu poses a greater annual risk to public health, pandemic flu outbreaks—caused by new virus strains—can lead to widespread infections. The best defense is an annual flu vaccine, which helps reduce the severity of symptoms if you do get sick.
7-Ebola Virus
Although the Ebola virus is not a significant health threat in the United States, outbreaks have recently occurred in Africa. This disease can cause severe bleeding and is often fatal. Anyone showing symptoms (fever, diarrhea, bleeding) after contact with someone recently returning from an affected region should seek immediate medical attention.
8-MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus)
MRSA, one of the first antibiotic-resistant bacteria to gain widespread attention, remains a serious concern in healthcare. It can lead to infections at surgical sites, in the bloodstream, and in the lungs. Left untreated, MRSA can be fatal. Preventive measures include regular handwashing, using gloves for wound care, and avoiding shared personal items like razors to minimize skin irritation and bacterial spread.
