The Top 5 Diseases Expected to Affect Africa in 2022
Africa is a continent that has always been burdened by diseases. Despite tremendous progress made in recent years, there are still several deadly diseases that continue to wreak havoc. With the current pandemic situation worldwide, the focus on public health centers’ preparedness is higher than ever.
In 2022, several diseases are expected to affect Africa, and we will shed light on the top 5 of them.
Malaria
Malaria remains a major health issue in Africa, with more than 200 million cases reported in 2019. Although significant progress has been made in controlling the disease, malaria still poses a threat to millions of Africans. Children under five years of age and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable. The fight against malaria is ongoing, with preventive measures such as mosquito nets, spraying insecticides, and administering drugs to at-risk populations being deployed.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is another disease that is widespread in Africa and affects approximately 2.76 million people in the region every year. It is a highly contagious disease that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. TB mostly affects people with a weak immune system, such as those who are HIV-positive, malnourished, or have other underlying health conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been working with African nations to diagnose and treat TB cases effectively and prevent its spread through various awareness campaigns.
Cholera
Cholera remains a significant threat in Africa, with outbreaks being reported regularly. The disease is caused by a bacterium found in contaminated water or food, which can lead to severe diarrhea and dehydration. Cholera is prevalent in overcrowded areas and areas without adequate sanitation facilities. Governments in Africa are investing in water treatment facilities and creating public awareness to prevent the spread of cholera.
Yellow Fever
Yellow fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic disease that is transmitted by mosquitoes. The disease mostly affects people living in rural areas, and it is prevalent in several African countries. Despite being preventable through vaccination, many people in Africa are still not vaccinated against yellow fever. WHO has been working with the governments of affected countries to strengthen their yellow fever surveillance and vaccination efforts.
HIV/AIDS
HIV/AIDS remains a significant burden in Africa, with almost 70% of the global HIV population. Despite the progress made in combating the disease, the virus continues to spread, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. HIV is spread through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to child. Various prevention and care efforts, including testing, treatment, and prevention, are underway to fight HIV/AIDS in Africa.
Conclusion
In conclusion, diseases have been a significant threat to Africa’s health for centuries, and it is no different in 2022. Health organizations and governments are working tirelessly to prevent and combat the diseases mentioned above. The fight against these diseases will require collaborative efforts from governments, international organizations, and communities to ensure better healthcare and well-being.
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