The bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes this disease. It is primarily a disease that affects the respiratory system, especially the lungs - in this case, it is called pulmonary tuberculosis. Extra-pulmonary tuberculosis affects parts other than the lungs like the skin, abdominal organs and bones. Antibiotics can be used in the treatment of this disease and many laboratory tests have been developed for its diagnosis.
The bacteria is usually spread by contact or through the air.
2. Malaria
Answer: Protozoa
Members of a genus of protozoa called Plasmodium are involved in malaria. The main species associated with malaria are P. falciparum, P. vivax and P. ovale. This disease is spread by the bite of a mosquito, most commonly the Anopheles mosquito. The control of these vectors is central to the prevention of the disease.
There are a number of anti-malarial medications that are used in the treatment of this disease. Symptoms include a characteristic fever, body pain, chills and headaches.
3. Rabies
Answer: Virus
The rabies virus is passed though the bites of infected animals such as dogs, wolves, foxes and jackals. It is almost always fatal if left untreated and the disease progresses. Humans infected with rabies can develop symptoms such as fear of water and air, and also seizures, and show aggressive behaviour. Vaccinations are used for the prevention of rabies - there are vaccines for both humans and dogs. Organisations like the World Health Organisation (WHO) have recommended protocols for anti-rabies vaccinations after a dog bite and for those who work with dogs regularly.
4. Typhoid
Answer: Bacteria
The bacteria Salmonella typhi is involved in causing typhoid. This bacteria can be transmitted through contaminated water or food. Symptoms of this disease include fever,, abdominal pain, loose stools (diarrhea) or constipation, and generalised weakness.
The bacteria usually infects and grows in the intestines. Handwashing before cooking and other hygiene practices are recommended for the prevention of spread of this disease. Antibiotics like azithromycin and cephalosporins are used in its treatment.
5. Aspergillosis
Answer: Fungus
Aspergillosis is a fungal disease caused by the fungal genus, Aspergillus. The disease usually affects the respiratory system causing symptoms like bloody cough, fever, chills and can progress to life-threatening situations if not treated. Antifungal medications are used in the treatment of this disease.
The fungus spreads through air and infections usually develop in patients whose immune system are weak.
6. Chickenpox
Answer: Virus
Chickenpox, in the medical world, is referred to as varicella. It is caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV). It most commonly affects children and a characteristic spreading rash develops in different parts of the body during its course. Other symptoms include fever and headaches.
It spreads from one person to another through the air or through contact. Once a person is infected, they usually develop immunity to a repeat infection. Vaccines have been developed which can be used to prevent the disease.
7. Syphilis
Answer: Bacteria
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the spirochete bacteria Treponema pallidum. There are many stages of syphilis and each one signifies a different level in the progression of the disease. If left untreated for a long time, the disease can cause neurological issues and even behavioural changes. Congenital syphilis occurs in babies at birth when it is passed from the mother. Usage of condoms can prevent the transmission of the disease. Antibiotics are used in the treatment of syphilis.
8. Trypanosomiasis
Answer: Protozoa
Trypanosomiasis is caused by protozoa belonging to the genus Trypanosoma. African trypanosomiasis is caused by the species Trypanosoma brucei and is also called sleeping sickness. It is transmitted by the bite of the tsetse fly. American trypanosomiasis is also called Chagas disease.
It is caused by the species Trypanosoma cruzi. It is transmitted by a group of bugs called kissing bugs. Special blood tests are used to diagnose the diseases.
9. Histoplasmosis
Answer: Fungus
Histoplasmosis is caused by a fungus called Histoplasma capsulatum. Other names of this disease include Caver's disease. This fungus is found in soil, which contains decayed bat feces (guano) or bird droppings. Coming into contact with such soil can cause the spread of the disease to humans.
The disease can affect many parts of the body including the respiratory system, the skin, the heart and the kidneys. Antifungal medications, like amphotericin B, can be used in its treatment.
10. Dengue fever
Answer: Virus
The dengue virus causes dengue fever. It is most commonly spread through the bite of a species of mosquito called the Aedes aegypti. Symptoms of dengue include fever, headache, body and joint pain, skin rashes, excessive bleeding and a potentially life-threatening reduction in platelet counts. Treatment mainly involves alleviating the symptoms and ensuring proper hydration with fluids.
In some severe cases, blood transfusions may be required.
This quiz was reviewed by FunTrivia editor rossian before going online.
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