UNIT 12: DISEASES & INFECTION
C: How infectious diseases can be treated and managed
BY: AJMAL SHEKEB NOORMAL
1
,Unit 12 Ajmal Shekeb NOORMAL
INTRODUCTION
I am working as a volunteer for an international charity whose aims are to overcome the
threats to people’s health created by outbreaks of serious infectious diseases caused by
bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites or protozoa. The charity runs several programmes that
work with communities around the world to reduce the extent and impact of the diseases.
My role as a volunteer is to help research the various antimicrobial, anthelmintic, vaccine,
immunoglobulin and rehydration therapies being used to treat a range of infectious diseases
so that published information regarding the charity’s work can be kept up-to-date. I will use
your research to produce a report that evaluates, compares and describes the different
treatment methods and the suitability, problems and contraindications to their uses.
The aim of this assignment is to know different ways that can be used to treat infectious
diseases. First, I will talk about different types of drugs that are used for different types of
infectious diseases. I will also mention how they are used and what is good and bad about
them. At the end, I am going to evaluate the barriers and challenges that affects the
treatment process.
ANTIBIOTICS :
Antibiotics are bacteria-killing drugs. Because antibiotics are the most prevalent type of
antibacterial agent, they are frequently utilised in the treatment and prevention of bacterial
infections. These chemicals have the ability to kill or inhibit bacteria. A tiny number of
antibiotics have antiprotozoal action. [1]
Antibiotics are medicines that are used to treat bacterial infections. Antibacterial is another
name for them. Infections are treated by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
In 1936, the first modern antibiotic was applied. Bacterial infections were responsible for
30% of all deaths prior to the invention of antibiotics. Antibiotics have made it possible to
treat infections that were formerly fatal.
Antibiotics are still effective, life-saving treatments for those suffering from serious
infections today. They can also help prevent infections that aren't as severe from becoming
more dangerous.[2]
Antibiotic is a word that means "against life." In theory, an antibiotic is any medication that
destroys microorganisms in your body. However, most people use the phrase to refer to
antibiotics that are used to kill bacteria.[3]
Infectious Diseases 2
,Unit 12 Ajmal Shekeb NOORMAL
Before scientists first
discovered antibiotics in the
1920s, many people died
from minor bacterial
infections, like strep throat.
Surgery was riskier, too. But
after antibiotics became
available in the 1940s, life
expectancy increased,
surgeries got safer, and
people could survive what
used to be deadly
infections.[3]
[image 1]
Antibiotics have been in use
since the dawn of time. Mouldy bread was applied topically by various cultures, with several
allusions to its curative qualities found in ancient Egypt, Nubia, China, Serbia, Greece, and
Rome. John Parkinson (1567–1650) was the first to directly document the use of moulds to
treat illnesses. Antibiotics were a game-changer in medicine in the twentieth century. In
1928, Alexander Fleming (1881–1955) discovered modern-day penicillin, whose widespread
use proved to be extremely valuable during World War II. Antibiotics' efficiency and ease of
access, however, have led to their abuse, and certain bacteria have developed resistance to
them. Antimicrobial resistance is a worldwide "severe concern [that] is no longer a
prediction for the future; it is happening right now in every region of the world and has the
potential to affect everyone, of any age, in any country," according to the World Health
Organization.[1]
Antibiotics work by interfering with the bacterial cell wall, preventing the bacteria from
growing and reproducing. Because human cells lack cell walls, while many bacteria have,
antibiotics can be used to target bacteria without hurting human cells.
Antibiotics are either bactericidal (killing bacteria) or bacteriostatic (preventing germs from
multiplying) (they keep the bacteria from reproducing and growing).
Antibiotics have little effect on viruses that cause the common cold, flu, and a variety of
coughs, thus they are ineffective in treating these illnesses.[4]
The majority of bacteria in your body are harmless. Some of them are even beneficial.
Bacteria can still invade nearly any organ. Antibiotics, fortunately, can typically help.
Antibiotics can be used to treat the following types of infections: Meningitis (swelling of the
brain and spinal cord), Strep throat, Bladder and kidney infections, Bacterial pneumonias,
and Whooping cough are some of the ear and sinus infections, dental infections, skin
infections, meningitis (swelling of the brain and spinal cord), Strep throat, Bladder and
kidney infections, Bacterial pneumonias, and Whooping cough.[3]
Antibiotics may be used to treat bacterial infections that are unlikely to clear up without
antibiotics, have the potential to infect others, take too long to clear up without treatment,
or carry the risk of more serious sequelae.
Infectious Diseases 3
, Unit 12 Ajmal Shekeb NOORMAL
Antibiotic prophylaxis is the use of antibiotics to prevent infection in people who are at a
high risk of illness. [5]
Antibiotics may be used to treat bacterial infections that are unlikely to clear up without
antibiotics, have the potential to infect others, take too long to clear up without treatment,
or carry the risk of more serious sequelae. Antibiotic prophylaxis is the use of antibiotics to
prevent infection in people who are at a high risk of illness. [3]
There are hundreds of different types of antibiotics, but most of them can be classified into
6 groups.[5]
Penicillin's (such as penicillin and amoxicillin) – widely used to treat a variety of
infections, including skin infections, chest infections and urinary tract infections
Cephalosporins (such as cephalexin) – used to treat a wide range of infections, but
some are also effective for treating more serious infections, such as septicaemia and
meningitis
Aminoglycosides (such as gentamicin and tobramycin) – tend to only be used in
hospital to treat very serious illnesses such as septicaemia, as they can cause serious
side effects, including hearing loss and kidney damage; they're usually given by
injection, but may be given as drops for some ear or eye infections
Tetracyclines (such as tetracycline and doxycycline) – can be used to treat a wide
range of infections, but are commonly used to treat acne and a skin condition called
rosacea
Macrolides (such as erythromycin and clarithromycin) – can be particularly useful for
treating lung and chest infections, or as an alternative for people with a penicillin
allergy, or to treat penicillin-resistant strains of bacteria
Fluoroquinolones (such as ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin) – are broad-spectrum
antibiotics that were once used to treat a wide range of infections, especially
respiratory and urinary tract infections. These antibiotics are no longer used
routinely because of the risk of serious side effects.[5]
Antibiotics often damage your digestive system while treating an illness since your gut is full
of bacteria, both good and bad.
The following are examples of common side effects: Vomiting, Nausea, Diarrhoea, Bloating
or Indigestion, Abdominal Pain, and Loss of Appetite are some of the symptoms that can
occur.
Other symptoms include hives (a raised, itchy skin rash), coughing, wheezing, and a tight
throat or difficulty breathing. [3]
Antibiotics save lives, but they can induce negative effects and lead to antibiotic resistance
whenever they are used.
Antibiotics have considerably reduced infectious disease morbidity and death since the
1940s. Microorganisms, on the other hand, evolve defence methods against the
medications as we use them. As a result, the medications are less effective. [6]
When administered correctly and appropriately, antibiotics are an effective germ-fighting
agent. However, up to half of all antibiotics are unnecessary. Antibacterial resistance has
developed as a result of overuse. Bacteria evolve into "super bacteria" or "superbugs"
throughout time. Antibiotics no longer work on them because they have evolved. Because
there are no treatments to destroy them, they pose a significant concern. [3]
Infectious Diseases 4
C: How infectious diseases can be treated and managed
BY: AJMAL SHEKEB NOORMAL
1
,Unit 12 Ajmal Shekeb NOORMAL
INTRODUCTION
I am working as a volunteer for an international charity whose aims are to overcome the
threats to people’s health created by outbreaks of serious infectious diseases caused by
bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites or protozoa. The charity runs several programmes that
work with communities around the world to reduce the extent and impact of the diseases.
My role as a volunteer is to help research the various antimicrobial, anthelmintic, vaccine,
immunoglobulin and rehydration therapies being used to treat a range of infectious diseases
so that published information regarding the charity’s work can be kept up-to-date. I will use
your research to produce a report that evaluates, compares and describes the different
treatment methods and the suitability, problems and contraindications to their uses.
The aim of this assignment is to know different ways that can be used to treat infectious
diseases. First, I will talk about different types of drugs that are used for different types of
infectious diseases. I will also mention how they are used and what is good and bad about
them. At the end, I am going to evaluate the barriers and challenges that affects the
treatment process.
ANTIBIOTICS :
Antibiotics are bacteria-killing drugs. Because antibiotics are the most prevalent type of
antibacterial agent, they are frequently utilised in the treatment and prevention of bacterial
infections. These chemicals have the ability to kill or inhibit bacteria. A tiny number of
antibiotics have antiprotozoal action. [1]
Antibiotics are medicines that are used to treat bacterial infections. Antibacterial is another
name for them. Infections are treated by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
In 1936, the first modern antibiotic was applied. Bacterial infections were responsible for
30% of all deaths prior to the invention of antibiotics. Antibiotics have made it possible to
treat infections that were formerly fatal.
Antibiotics are still effective, life-saving treatments for those suffering from serious
infections today. They can also help prevent infections that aren't as severe from becoming
more dangerous.[2]
Antibiotic is a word that means "against life." In theory, an antibiotic is any medication that
destroys microorganisms in your body. However, most people use the phrase to refer to
antibiotics that are used to kill bacteria.[3]
Infectious Diseases 2
,Unit 12 Ajmal Shekeb NOORMAL
Before scientists first
discovered antibiotics in the
1920s, many people died
from minor bacterial
infections, like strep throat.
Surgery was riskier, too. But
after antibiotics became
available in the 1940s, life
expectancy increased,
surgeries got safer, and
people could survive what
used to be deadly
infections.[3]
[image 1]
Antibiotics have been in use
since the dawn of time. Mouldy bread was applied topically by various cultures, with several
allusions to its curative qualities found in ancient Egypt, Nubia, China, Serbia, Greece, and
Rome. John Parkinson (1567–1650) was the first to directly document the use of moulds to
treat illnesses. Antibiotics were a game-changer in medicine in the twentieth century. In
1928, Alexander Fleming (1881–1955) discovered modern-day penicillin, whose widespread
use proved to be extremely valuable during World War II. Antibiotics' efficiency and ease of
access, however, have led to their abuse, and certain bacteria have developed resistance to
them. Antimicrobial resistance is a worldwide "severe concern [that] is no longer a
prediction for the future; it is happening right now in every region of the world and has the
potential to affect everyone, of any age, in any country," according to the World Health
Organization.[1]
Antibiotics work by interfering with the bacterial cell wall, preventing the bacteria from
growing and reproducing. Because human cells lack cell walls, while many bacteria have,
antibiotics can be used to target bacteria without hurting human cells.
Antibiotics are either bactericidal (killing bacteria) or bacteriostatic (preventing germs from
multiplying) (they keep the bacteria from reproducing and growing).
Antibiotics have little effect on viruses that cause the common cold, flu, and a variety of
coughs, thus they are ineffective in treating these illnesses.[4]
The majority of bacteria in your body are harmless. Some of them are even beneficial.
Bacteria can still invade nearly any organ. Antibiotics, fortunately, can typically help.
Antibiotics can be used to treat the following types of infections: Meningitis (swelling of the
brain and spinal cord), Strep throat, Bladder and kidney infections, Bacterial pneumonias,
and Whooping cough are some of the ear and sinus infections, dental infections, skin
infections, meningitis (swelling of the brain and spinal cord), Strep throat, Bladder and
kidney infections, Bacterial pneumonias, and Whooping cough.[3]
Antibiotics may be used to treat bacterial infections that are unlikely to clear up without
antibiotics, have the potential to infect others, take too long to clear up without treatment,
or carry the risk of more serious sequelae.
Infectious Diseases 3
, Unit 12 Ajmal Shekeb NOORMAL
Antibiotic prophylaxis is the use of antibiotics to prevent infection in people who are at a
high risk of illness. [5]
Antibiotics may be used to treat bacterial infections that are unlikely to clear up without
antibiotics, have the potential to infect others, take too long to clear up without treatment,
or carry the risk of more serious sequelae. Antibiotic prophylaxis is the use of antibiotics to
prevent infection in people who are at a high risk of illness. [3]
There are hundreds of different types of antibiotics, but most of them can be classified into
6 groups.[5]
Penicillin's (such as penicillin and amoxicillin) – widely used to treat a variety of
infections, including skin infections, chest infections and urinary tract infections
Cephalosporins (such as cephalexin) – used to treat a wide range of infections, but
some are also effective for treating more serious infections, such as septicaemia and
meningitis
Aminoglycosides (such as gentamicin and tobramycin) – tend to only be used in
hospital to treat very serious illnesses such as septicaemia, as they can cause serious
side effects, including hearing loss and kidney damage; they're usually given by
injection, but may be given as drops for some ear or eye infections
Tetracyclines (such as tetracycline and doxycycline) – can be used to treat a wide
range of infections, but are commonly used to treat acne and a skin condition called
rosacea
Macrolides (such as erythromycin and clarithromycin) – can be particularly useful for
treating lung and chest infections, or as an alternative for people with a penicillin
allergy, or to treat penicillin-resistant strains of bacteria
Fluoroquinolones (such as ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin) – are broad-spectrum
antibiotics that were once used to treat a wide range of infections, especially
respiratory and urinary tract infections. These antibiotics are no longer used
routinely because of the risk of serious side effects.[5]
Antibiotics often damage your digestive system while treating an illness since your gut is full
of bacteria, both good and bad.
The following are examples of common side effects: Vomiting, Nausea, Diarrhoea, Bloating
or Indigestion, Abdominal Pain, and Loss of Appetite are some of the symptoms that can
occur.
Other symptoms include hives (a raised, itchy skin rash), coughing, wheezing, and a tight
throat or difficulty breathing. [3]
Antibiotics save lives, but they can induce negative effects and lead to antibiotic resistance
whenever they are used.
Antibiotics have considerably reduced infectious disease morbidity and death since the
1940s. Microorganisms, on the other hand, evolve defence methods against the
medications as we use them. As a result, the medications are less effective. [6]
When administered correctly and appropriately, antibiotics are an effective germ-fighting
agent. However, up to half of all antibiotics are unnecessary. Antibacterial resistance has
developed as a result of overuse. Bacteria evolve into "super bacteria" or "superbugs"
throughout time. Antibiotics no longer work on them because they have evolved. Because
there are no treatments to destroy them, they pose a significant concern. [3]
Infectious Diseases 4
