Infectious diseases in Macomb, MI, are numerous. Though some are easily eradicated whenever there is an outbreak, others usually transform into an epidemic that may cause the loss of lives. However, the county public health department, in conjunction with the infectious disease surveillance program, monitors any outbreaks and initiates preventive treatment.
Here are some of the highly infectious diseases in Macomb MI:
1. Seasonal Influenza
This is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system. The seasonal influenza vaccines are found in most clinics within the county, and anyone who is six months and older is eligible for yearly vaccination. The immunization clinic hours may vary depending on the clinic.
2. Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
This is a respiratory disease that starts with symptoms similar to common cold such as running nose, coughing, sneezing but instead progresses into severe coughing. When young children are infected, they cough so forcefully and inhale with “a whooping sound,” which became the name of this infectious disease.
The best way to prevent Pertussis is to get vaccinated. Luckily, most children are usually vaccinated at birth for this highly infectious disease. Adults and teenager may need a booster shot to prevent infection, especially when they are around infants.
3. West Nile Disease
Mosquito bites are becoming a nuisance in Macomb County. These insects are likely carriers of West Nile Disease. Some of the symptoms of this viral disease are skin rash, fever, headache, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes. The key feature of this disease is encephalitis, which is the swelling of the brain. Use of insect repellents helps to reduce the risk of getting infected with the West Nile Disease.
4. Measles
Measles is a very contagious disease that can be prevented by vaccination within the first six months after birth. It spreads via person-to-person contact as well as through the air. This virus can live in the air for up to 2 hours after the infected person has left the location.
The symptoms take up to 21 days to appear after exposure, and they include high fever, cough, runny nose, red, watery eyes, tiny white spots in the inner cheeks and gums and red raised blotchy rashes on the face, arms and legs. Vaccination is the simplest way to prevent this disease.
5. Zika Virus
This virus is spread to people via mosquitoes. Zika Virus is found in the tropical areas around the world and has been spread to the Caribbean, Mexico and USA.
In America, this virus is usually spread by travelers returning from tropical countries. This virus is hazardous to pregnant women and therefore, should avoid or postpone traveling to such countries.
You can protect yourself by using mosquito repellents and wearing long-sleeved shirts and a pair of trousers. If you get sick, you should inform your doctor that you had visited the tropics.
6. Hepatitis A
The South East Michigan State areas have been experiencing an outbreak of Hepatitis A in recent years. Since August of 2016, over 600 cases have been reported in the county. Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver disease that is caused by a virus spread from person to person.
The best way to prevent this disease is to get vaccinated. You must also wash your hands after visiting the restroom and before eating or preparing meals for yourself. Hepatitis A virus can also be spread through sex with an infected person. This viral infection can be prevented by ensuring proper hygiene.
There are many more infectious diseases in Macomb, MI, as reported by the Communicable Disease Surveillance Program. The only way to stay safe is to get vaccinated for these diseases and report to any health center as soon as you notice any sign or symptoms on your body.