Bacterial Diseases: Causes, Transmission and Prevention

Bacteria are tiny living things that can be found everywhere, some are good for us, while others can cause diseases. These bad bacteria get into our bodies and multiply, making us sick. This article explores some common bacterial diseases, how they spread, and how we can protect ourselves from them.

Understanding Bacterial Diseases: From Tiny Organisms to Real Threats

• Types of Bacteria: Bacteria are unicellular organisms that reproduce sexually or asexually and can exist in an environment with oxygen (aerobic) or in a situation lacking oxygen (anaerobic). 
  • Some may enter a dormant state and form spores where they are protected from the environment and may remain viable for years.
  • They include both indigenous flora (normal resident) bacteria and pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria. 
  • Pathogenic bacteria cause disease by invading, overcoming natural or acquired resistance, and multiplying in the body. 

• Diseases Caused by Bacteria
  • Typhoid Fever

• • • Caused by: Salmonella typhi bacteria
    • Transmission: Contaminated food/water
    • Symptoms: High fever, Weakness Stomach pain, Constipation, Headache, Loss of appetite
    • Complications: Intestinal perforation, death
    • Diagnosis: Widal test

• Pneumonia

• • • Caused by: Bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae)
  • 
    • Infection site: Alveoli (lung air sacs)
    • Symptoms: Fever, Chills, Cough and Headache
    • Severe symptoms: Bluish lips/fingernails
    • Transmission: Inhalation of droplets/aerosols from infected person
      • Sharing contaminated objects (glasses, utensils)
  • Other Bacterial Diseases are given below table

Conclusion

While some bacteria are helpful, others can cause a variety of illnesses. By understanding how these diseases spread and the different types of bacteria, we can take steps to protect ourselves. This includes practicing good hygiene, getting recommended vaccinations, and seeking medical attention when symptoms arise.