Top infectious disease outbreaks of recent years

Infectious diseases continue to be a global problem in the modern world. As public health experts such as Dr. Martin Sanders note, containment is most important, even as public health agencies all over continue to look for new treatments to eradicate various strains. This blog will look at some of the most dangerous outbreaks of infectious diseases in recent times.

Zika virus

The Zika virus gets transmitted to humans by the Aedes mosquito. The first case of Zika in humans was identified in 1952, a condition that by 1947 had afflicted monkeys in Uganda. Zika causes serious complications including congenital brain abnormalities among unborn babies. Mosquito-bitten pregnant women are at risk, especially because the Zika virus can be transmitted via sexual intercourse and passed on from mother to the child. The most recent Zika outbreak was reported in India in May 2017.

Human infection with avian influenza (H7N9)

The CDC reports that the H7N9 was first reported in China in 2013, with most cases among humans having avian influenza occurring after exposure to birds and poultry. The most recent recorded instance of H7N9 in humans was in October 2017, according to the WHO. Most people who’ve contracted the diseases display serious symptoms of respiratory illness, beginning with flu-like symptoms, from headaches to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV)

This viral respiratory illness that was first seen in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Cases of MERS-CoV has since been reported in several nearby countries. The virus is transmitted from the dromedary camel to humans, but it can also be contracted through bodily fluids. The CDC reports that three to four out of every 10 people who’ve been infected have died, with symptoms beginning with coughing, fever, and chills to nausea and dizziness. Dr. Martin Sanders said that the most recent outbreaks of the MERS-CoV occurred in the U.A.E. and Saudi Arabia in August and October of 2017, respectively.

Captain Martin Sanders, Ph.D., is involved in biosafety and biosecurity issues both domestic and international. In addition, he has been a member of many research teams and has contributed to several published studies on epidemiology. More posts on public health here.