BY ALLISON KOZICHAROW AND BERNICE BORN
WiRED International is pleased to offer a health learning module on airborne diseases, as part of WiRED’s upcoming Infectious Disease series. WiRED’s Airborne Disease Module defines airborne diseases, identifies their causes and tells how to avoid contracting them.
An airborne disease is any respiratory disease which is caused by pathogens, or germs, that are sent out through the air. These pathogens can cause inflammation in the nose, throat, sinuses, upper airway and lungs. People can spread these pathogens by coughing, sneezing, raising dust or spraying liquids. Examples of airborne diseases are measles, chicken pox, influenza and tuberculosis.
To keep from catching airborne diseases, people should get vaccinated, wash their hands often, and stay away from those who are sick. Everyone should cover their faces and mouths when they cough or sneeze. To avoid spreading sickness at home, people should be sure their homes have fresh air. They should avoid sharing cups, drinking glasses, eating utensils and grooming items with others, and should avoid close contact with sick persons in their homes.
Airborne diseases can affect anyone, but especially infants and children, pregnant women and their fetuses, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. WiRED believes that the best protection against airborne diseases or any disease is to become educated by getting accurate and current information.