Guide To Almost Eradicated And Entirely Eradicated Infectious Diseases

Yaws

Yaws is a type of chronic bacterial infection that frequently impacts children living in tropical areas. The majority of cases are diagnosed in patients between six to ten years old. The disease develops as a result of infection with a subspecies of the Treponema pallidum bacterium, and it is transmitted through skin contact. Skin lesions are a primary symptom of yaws, and the condition generally begins with a single sore that appears similar to a berry. The sores gradually spread, and yaws has the potential to impact bones and cartilage as well. Some patients with the condition may experience swollen lymph nodes, bone pain, and scarring. Polymerase chain reaction tests can diagnose the illness, and it can be successfully treated with a single dose of oral azithromycin, an antibiotic. A seven-day course of oral doxycycline is used for patients allergic to azithromycin, and a single injection of benzathine penicillin can cure yaws, too. Early detection and treatment of yaw can enable patients to avoid its disfiguring effects. Eradication campaigns are underway.