• Blog - Diseases & Conditions - Health Issues

    Why Measles is So Contagious (R0 Value Explained)

    Introduction Measles is not just another childhood illness—it’s one of the most contagious diseases known to humans. Its ability to spread rapidly through communities has led to explosive outbreaks in areas with low vaccination coverage. The secret to its high transmissibility lies in a concept called R₀ (basic reproduction number). Understanding R₀ helps explain why controlling measles requires extremely high levels of immunity in a population. What is R₀ (Basic Reproduction Number)? For measles, the R₀ is estimated between 12 and 18, making it one of the highest among all infectious diseases.This means that one person with measles can infect…

  • Blog - Diseases & Conditions - Health Issues - Prevention & Wellness

    Natural History of HPV: Can the Virus Clear on Its Own?

    Introduction Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection globally, affecting millions of individuals across all ages and backgrounds. Despite its prevalence, HPV remains a misunderstood virus, particularly regarding its progression and clearance in the human body. Many people diagnosed with HPV worry about the long-term implications of the infection, including whether the virus can be naturally eliminated or if it persists indefinitely. This article explores the natural history of HPV—how the virus behaves after infection, the body’s ability to clear it naturally, and factors influencing persistence or progression to disease. What Is HPV? HPV is a group…

  • Ask the Experts - Blog - Diseases & Conditions - Health Issues - Lifestyle & Wellness - Prevention & Wellness - Resources & Tools

    Cytomegalovirus (CMV): Protecting Against Birth Defects Caused by this Herpesvirus

    Introduction Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common herpesvirus that can cause a range of health issues. From mild symptoms in otherwise healthy individuals to severe complications in vulnerable populations. It is particularly concerning for pregnant women, as CMV infection during pregnancy can lead to serious birth defects. Understanding CMV, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, risks, and management, is important for preventing and mitigating its impact. Especially in the context of pregnancy and infant health.   What is Cytomegalovirus? Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a member of the herpesvirus family, which also includes viruses like herpes simplex and varicella-zoster. CMV is widely prevalent and…

  • Ask the Experts - Blog - Diseases & Conditions - Health Issues - Lifestyle & Wellness - Prevention & Wellness - Resources & Tools

    Sepsis: Recognizing the Signs of This Life-Threatening Response to Infection

    Introduction Sepsis is a critical medical condition that arises from the body’s extreme response to an infection. This potentially life-threatening syndrome occurs when the body’s immune system, in an attempt to combat an infection, triggers widespread inflammation. If not recognized and treated promptly, sepsis can lead to severe complications, including organ failure and death. Understanding sepsis, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options is important for timely intervention and improved outcomes.   What is Sepsis? Sepsis is a serious and often life-threatening condition characterized by a systemic inflammatory response to an infection. When an infection spreads throughout the body, it can…

  • Blog - Diseases & Conditions - Fitness & Exercise - Health Issues - Lifestyle & Wellness - Nutrition & Diet - Parenting & Family Health - Prevention & Wellness

    Hepatitis

    Introduction:  Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that is caused by infectious viruses. This leads to a range of health problems, some of which can be fatal. There are many stages of hepatitis. The earlier it is diagnosed, the earlier it will be treated. If hepatitis is not treated promptly, it might result in death or severe long-term consequences. The hepatitis virus comes in five primary strains, which are called types A, B, C, D, and E. Even though they are all liver disease causes, there are some significant differences between them, such as the ways in which the…