The Top 7 Killer Diseases That Immunization Can Help Prevent
Immunization is an essential public health intervention that has the power to save millions of lives worldwide. It is a cost-effective way to reduce the incidence of infectious diseases and their complications, especially among children. By vaccinating against specific diseases, individuals can develop immunity and avoid experiencing potentially fatal illnesses. In this article, we will explore the top seven killer diseases that immunization can help prevent and why vaccination is critical to public health.
1. Polio
Polio is a highly infectious viral disease that affects the nervous system, causing paralysis and sometimes death. It is still prevalent in some parts of the world, including Nigeria, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. However, with the widespread use of the polio vaccine, the disease has been eradicated in most countries worldwide. Immunization reduces the risk of contracting the virus and helps prevent the spread of the disease.
2. Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause severe respiratory infections, blindness, and brain damage. It spreads through contact with airborne droplets from an infected person. Measles is preventable through vaccination, and the vaccine is highly effective at reducing the incidence of the disease. In recent years, the number of measles cases has increased due to inadequate coverage of the vaccine, leading to outbreaks in many countries worldwide.
3. Tetanus
Tetanus is caused by a bacterium that enters the body through a wound, causing muscle stiffness and spasms. The disease can be fatal in 10-20% of cases. Tetanus can be prevented through vaccination, which is a key strategy in reducing the incidence of the disease. The vaccine is effective and has prevented millions of cases worldwide.
4. Whooping Cough
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial disease that causes severe coughing spells, making it difficult for patients to breathe. Babies and young children are particularly vulnerable to the disease, and it can be fatal in some cases. Immunization is an effective way to reduce the incidence of whooping cough, and vaccination is an essential part of the childhood immunization schedule.
5. Diphtheria
Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that can cause severe respiratory problems and heart failure. It spreads through contact with respiratory secretions from infected individuals. The disease can be fatal in up to 10% of cases. Vaccination is an effective way to prevent diphtheria, and it is a critical component of the childhood immunization schedule.
6. Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver, causing liver damage, and sometimes liver cancer. It spreads through contact with infected blood, sexual contact, or from mother to child during childbirth. Immunization is an effective way to prevent hepatitis B, and the vaccine is recommended for newborns and individuals at high risk of contracting the disease.
7. Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a severe respiratory infection that affects the lungs, causing fever, coughing, and difficulty breathing. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi and is a major cause of death among children under five years worldwide. Immunization is a critical strategy in reducing the incidence of pneumonia, and vaccination against pneumococcal bacteria and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) can prevent many cases of pneumonia.
Conclusion
In conclusion, immunization is a crucial public health intervention that helps prevent deadly diseases and its complications. By getting vaccinated, individuals can protect themselves and their communities from potentially fatal illnesses. Vaccination is safe, effective, and cost-effective, making it an essential component of any public health initiative. It is essential to maintain high vaccination coverage to prevent outbreaks of infectious diseases and to prevent the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases.
