Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is a viral respiratory illness caused by the SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV). The outbreak of SARS in 2002-2003 marked a significant global public health crisis. SARS is characterized by severe respiratory symptoms and can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and, in some cases, death. …
Ebola Virus Disease: Causative agents, epidemiology and clinical presentations and Role of Pharmacists
Ebola virus disease (EVD), formerly known as Ebola hemorrhagic fever, is a severe and often fatal illness caused by infection with Ebola viruses. It is characterized by fever, severe headache, muscle pain, weakness, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, and in some cases, internal and external bleeding. Causative Agent Ebola virus belongs to …
Tuberculosis (TB): Causative agents, epidemiology and clinical presentations and Role of Pharmacists
Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body such as the kidneys, spine, and brain. TB can present as either active disease or latent infection, where the bacteria remain dormant in …
Acute Respiratory Infections (ARIs): Causative agents, epidemiology and clinical presentations and Role of Pharmacists
Acute Respiratory Infections (ARIs) refer to a broad category of infections affecting the respiratory tract, including the nose, throat, sinuses, and lungs. These infections can range from mild, self-limiting illnesses such as the common cold to severe conditions such as pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Causative Agents Numerous …
Meningococcal Meningitis: Causative agents, epidemiology and clinical presentations and Role of Pharmacists
Meningococcal meningitis is a severe bacterial infection of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, also known as meningococcus. Meningococcal meningitis can lead to serious complications, including brain damage, hearing loss, and death, if not promptly treated. Causative …
Whooping Cough: Causative agents, epidemiology and clinical presentations and Role of Pharmacists
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is characterized by severe coughing fits followed by a distinctive “whooping” sound as the individual gasps for air. Causative Agents The primary causative agent of whooping cough is Bordetella pertussis, a …
Diphtheria: Causative agents, epidemiology and clinical presentations and Role of Pharmacists
Diphtheria is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It primarily affects the mucous membranes of the throat and nose, causing a characteristic thick grayish membrane to form in the throat, which can obstruct the airway and lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. Causative Agents Corynebacterium …
Influenza: Causative agents, epidemiology and clinical presentations and Role of Pharmacists
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can range from mild to severe and can lead to complications, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying health conditions. Causative Agents Influenza viruses belong …
Mumps: Causative agents, epidemiology and clinical presentations and Role of Pharmacists
Mumps is a viral infection caused by the mumps virus, which primarily affects the salivary glands, leading to swelling and inflammation. It is typically a childhood illness but can occur in individuals of any age who have not been vaccinated or previously exposed to the virus. Mumps is preventable through …
Rubella: Causative agents, epidemiology and clinical presentations and Role of Pharmacists
Rubella, also known as German measles, is a viral infection caused by the rubella virus. It is usually a mild illness, but it can have serious consequences if contracted by pregnant women, leading to congenital rubella syndrome in the unborn child. Rubella is preventable through vaccination. Causative Agents The rubella …