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Onchocerciasis (River Blindness) Onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness, is a chronic parasitic disease caused by the nematode worm Onchocerca volvulus.  It is characterized by severe itching, skin lesions, and, in advanced cases, blindness. The disease is primarily found in sub-Saharan Africa, with smaller outbreaks in Central and South America. Transmission: Vector: The disease is…

Helminthiasis/Worm Infestation Helminthiasis, commonly known as worm infestation, refers to a group of infections caused by parasitic worms living within the human body.  These infections are widespread, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions, affecting millions of people globally.  Helminthiasis: Helminthiasis encompasses infections caused by parasitic worms belonging to three major groups: 1. Nematodes (roundworms): These…

African Trypanosomiasis (Sleeping Sickness) Trypanosomiasis, commonly known as African trypanosomiasis or sleeping sickness, is a parasitic disease caused by protozoa of the genus Trypanosoma. These parasites are transmitted by the tsetse fly and affect both humans and animals. The disease is endemic to sub-Saharan Africa and can be fatal if left untreated. Aetiology: Trypanosomiasis is…

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is a viral respiratory illness caused by the SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV), first identified in 2002.  It\’s characterized by a rapid onset of fever, cough, and shortness of breath, often progressing to pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).  While the 2003 outbreak was effectively contained,…

Nursing Notes – Biliary System and Liver HEPATITIS Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. While it can be caused by exposure to certain chemicals, drugs, or autoimmune processes, it is most commonly caused by a viral infection. Types of Hepatitis Viral Hepatitis: Caused by a group of specific viruses (Hepatitis A, B, C, D,…

Scabies: Scabies is a highly contagious skin infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei.  The female mite burrows into the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the skin) to lay eggs, causing intense itching and a characteristic rash. It\’s a significant public health problem, particularly affecting populations living in close proximity or with compromised hygiene.…

Anthrax  Anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis.  It\’s a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. While rare in humans, anthrax remains a significant public health concern due to its potential for use as a bioweapon. Etiology Bacillus anthracis is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium that…

RABIES Rabies, also known as hydrophobia, is a fatal viral infection of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by inflammation and acute encephalitis. It\’s caused by contact with the saliva of an infected animal. Causes: Rabies is caused by the rabies virus, a single-stranded RNA virus with a bullet-shaped morphology (130-300 nm). It belongs to…

CHICKEN POX (Varicella-Zoster Virus) Chickenpox (varicella) is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a member of the Herpesviridae family. It\’s characterized by a pruritic (itchy) rash that progresses through macules (flat spots), papules (raised bumps), vesicles (fluid-filled blisters), pustules (pus-filled blisters), and finally crusts. The colloquial name \”Don\’t Touch Me\”…

MUMPS Mumps, also known as epidemic parotitis, is an acute, contagious viral infection primarily affecting the salivary glands, most notably the parotid glands.  Mumps is an acute, systemic, communicable viral infection. Its most characteristic feature is the painful swelling of one or both parotid glands.  Aetiology: Mumps is caused by the mumps virus (genus Rubulavirus,…