- Flushing your faucets and showerheads if they have not been used recently
- Cleaning, disinfecting, and maintaining all devices that use water
- Communicating with your water utility
- Keeping private water sources safe
- Checking with your building manager, owner or landlord
2. Viral pathogens
Large outbreaks were also much more likely to be caused by viral pathogens such as SARS coronavirus, influenza virus and Japanese encephalitis virus.
3. Travel and zoonotic pathogens
“We know that factors like exposure to wild mammals, habitat disruption, international trade and travel and contact with contaminated food and water are important considerations,” Stephens says in a university news release.
“Perhaps two-thirds of future infectious disease outbreaks are expected to be caused by zoonotic pathogens, and the number of these diseases is growing worldwide,” he adds. “Our research is an extremely important first step to better understand global variation in the drivers of outbreaks.”
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Smaller vs larger outbreaks
Smaller outbreaks were associated with food contamination, local livestock production and human-animal contact.
The researchers also found that large outbreaks tended to be caused by a greater variety of factors than small outbreaks, according to findings recently published in the journal Philosophical Transactions B.
Symptoms, treatment and prevention
Signs and symptoms of infectious diseases vary depending on the organism causing the infection, but often include fever and fatigue. Mild infections often respond to rest and home remedies. However, life-threatening infections may require hospitalization.
General signs and symptoms common to a number of infectious diseases include:
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Coughing
Many infectious diseases, such as measles and chickenpox, can be prevented by vaccines. Frequent and thorough hand-washing will also help protect you from most infectious diseases.
When to see a doctor
If you experience any of the following, you should consult with your doctor:
- Have been bitten by an animal
- Are having trouble breathing
- Have been coughing for more than a week
- Have severe headache with fever
- Experience a rash or swelling
- Have an unexplained or prolonged fever
- Have sudden vision problems