Communicable disease

Question 1

List the four major communicable diseases that cause death in humanitarian crises.

Answer 1

1. Measles
2. Diarrheal diseases
3. Acute respiratory infections
4. Malaria

These diseases become prevalent due to factors such as overcrowding, lack of clean water, malnutrition, and weakened health systems.

Question 2

Compare and contrast the case fatality rates of measles in stable populations versus emergency settings.

Answer 2

In stable populations, case fatality rates for measles are generally low, while in emergency settings, they can be significantly higher due to factors such as malnutrition and lack of medical care.

Factors contributing to higher rates in emergencies include weakened immunity in the population and inadequate access to vaccination.

Question 3

Describe the key clinical signs of acute lower respiratory infections (ALRI).

Answer 3

Key clinical signs include:
* Cough
* Difficulty breathing
* Chest pain
* Fever

The standardized approach to treatment involves assessing severity, providing oxygen if needed, and administering appropriate antibiotics.

Question 4

Explain why oral rehydration solution is considered an effective intervention for diarrheal diseases.

Answer 4

Oral rehydration solution works by replenishing fluids and electrolytes lost due to diarrhea, thereby preventing dehydration.

Its mechanism of action involves the absorption of water and salts in the intestines.

Question 5

Identify the main risk factors that increase susceptibility to pneumonia during humanitarian emergencies.

Answer 5

Main risk factors include:
* Poor nutrition
* Overcrowding
* Lack of access to healthcare
* Exposure to smoke

Prevention strategies include improving nutrition and ensuring access to vaccinations.

Question 6

Outline the transmission cycle of malaria.

Answer 6

The transmission cycle includes:
* Infection of the mosquito by feeding on an infected human
* Mosquito bites a human, transmitting the parasite
* Parasite multiplies in the human liver and blood

Knowledge of the cycle informs vector control strategies like insecticide-treated nets and indoor residual spraying.

Question 7

Describe the ‘ABC’ approach to HIV prevention.

Answer 7

‘ABC’ stands for:
* Abstinence
* Be faithful
* Condom use

This approach has been effective in reducing HIV transmission in resource-limited settings by promoting safe practices.

Question 8

Explain how Botswana achieved reductions in mother-to-child HIV transmission rates.

Answer 8

Botswana reduced rates by implementing:
* Widespread testing and treatment for pregnant women
* Providing antiretroviral therapy

Lessons for other settings include the importance of comprehensive healthcare access and community education.

Question 9

Compare the disease burden of tuberculosis, measles, and cutaneous leishmaniasis between host and refugee populations.

Answer 9

Refugee populations often experience a higher disease burden of:
* Tuberculosis
* Measles
* Cutaneous leishmaniasis

Differences are attributed to factors such as living conditions, health care access, and vaccination coverage.

Question 10

Describe the relationship between malnutrition and communicable diseases in humanitarian crises.

Answer 10

Malnutrition increases vulnerability to communicable diseases, leading to higher morbidity and mortality rates.

This relationship influences intervention strategies by emphasizing the need for nutrition support alongside disease treatment.