COMMUNICABLE DISEASES Lesson 3

The Common Cold Influenza “ the flu” Strep Throat Hepatitis Viral disease of the liver characterized by yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes

Why get vaccinated? Influenza ("flu") is a contagious disease that spreads around the United States every winter, usually between October and May. Flu is caused by influenza viruses, and is spread mainly by coughing, sneezing, and close contact.

Anyone can get flu, but the risk of getting flu is highest among children. Symptoms come on suddenly and may last several days. They can include: •fever/chills •sore throat •muscle aches •fatigue •cough •headache •runny or stuffy nose

Mononucleosis A viral disease whose symptoms include swollen, tender areas in the neck and the throat

also called "mono," is a common illness that can leave you feeling tired and weak for weeks or months. Mono goes away on its own, but lots of rest and good self-care can help you feel better. most often seen in teens and young adults. Children can get the virus, but it often goes unnoticed because their symptoms are mild. Older adults usually don't get mono, because they have immunity to the virus. Mono can be spread through contact with saliva, mucus from the nose and throat, and sometimes tears. Because the virus can be spread through kissing, it has earned the nickname the "kissing disease." If you have mono, you can avoid passing the virus to others by not kissing anyone and by not sharing things like drinking glasses, eating utensils, or toothbrushes.

•Fatigue •General feeling of unwellness (malaise) •Sore throat, perhaps a strep throat that doesn't get better with antibiotic use •Fever •Swollen lymph nodes in your neck and armpits •Swollen tonsils •Headache •Skin rash •Soft, swollen spleen

As soon as you get over mono, your symptoms will go away for good, but you will always carry the virus that caused it. The virus may become active from time to time without causing any symptoms. When the virus is active, it can be spread to others. Almost everyone has been infected with the mono virus by adulthood.

Good Health Habits Follow a healthy eating plan Get plenty of rest Get plenty of physical activity Avoid tobacco/alcohol/drugs Avoid sharing personal items