The Top 5 Most Contagious Illnesses
Even if you’re fit and healthy at this moment, there’s always the risk that you’ll come into contact with a range of contagious illnesses.
Some are easy to spot and treat, while others can completely derail your life before you know it. That’s why it pays to be aware of some of the most common illnesses out there.
We’ve put together a short guide that highlights several of the most common illnesses that you can pass on to others. Make sure you know about these so that you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your friends.
Read on to find out more.
1. Measles
There is no real consensus on what the most contagious illnesses are, but if we had to choose one, it would be measles. Measles is an airborne virus that is highly contagious. It is usually spread through contact with respiratory secretions, such as coughing and sneezing. It can cause severe respiratory illness, pneumonia, and even death.
The virus is so contagious that it can stay in the air for up to two hours and infect anyone who breathes it in. There is no cure for measles, and it can be deadly, particularly in young children. The best way to protect yourself from infectious illnesses is to get vaccinated.
2. Mumps
Mumps is a highly contagious viral illness that affects children. It is spreading through close contact with an infected person, through coughing or sneezing. Symptoms of the mumps include fever, headache, and swelling of the cheeks and jaw.
While most children recover from mumps without any complications, the virus can lead to more serious health problems, such as meningitis or deafness. The best way to prevent mumps is to get the MMR (mumps, measles, and rubella) vaccine.
3. Contagious Illnesses: Flu
The flu is usually caused by the influenza virus. It is a respiratory illness that can cause severe symptoms, including fever, body aches, and respiratory problems. The flu is spreading through the air and can be contracted by coming into contact with the respiratory secretions of an infected person, such as by coughing or sneezing.
The flu can also be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, such as doorknobs or countertops. The use of the best disinfectant wipes can help prevent the spread of the flu by cleaning these surfaces and preventing the germs and viruses from spreading.
4. Chickenpox
Chickenpox is an illness caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is characterized by a rash of itchy, water-filled blisters. Chickenpox is most seen in children but can occur in adults as well. The virus is usually spread through direct contact with the rash or through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
5. Whooping Cough
The disease is usually caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria and is spread through coughing and sneezing. Whooping cough can be deadly, especially to infants.
Prevent Them From Spreading
There are many contagious illnesses that can be easily passed from person to person. It is important to be aware of these illnesses and how they are spread to prevent them from spreading. If you think you may have a contagious illness, it is important to see a doctor right away and take steps to prevent the spread of the illness.
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