Describe the chosen communicable disease, including causes, symptoms, mode of transmission, complications, treatment, and the demographic of interest (mortality, morbidity, incidence, and prevalence). Is this a reportable disease? If so, provide details about reporting time, whom to report to, etc.

Introduction

Infectious diseases continue to be a major public health concern globally, with several cases reported annually. Communicable diseases are infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites that can be spread from one person to another through direct contact, indirect contact, or airborne transmission. This paper will focus on influenza, a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects millions of people worldwide. The paper will describe the causes, symptoms, mode of transmission, complications, treatment, and the demographic of interest for influenza. Additionally, the paper will discuss the social determinants of health and explain how those factors contribute to the development of influenza. The epidemiologic triangle will also be discussed as it relates to influenza, including host factors, agent factors, and environmental factors. The role of the community health nurse in case finding, reporting, data collection, analysis, and follow-up will be explained, and the need for demographic data to the health of the community highlighted. Furthermore, the paper will identify at least one national agency or organization that addresses influenza and describe how the organizations contribute to resolving or reducing the impact of disease. Finally, a global implication of influenza will be discussed, highlighting how the disease is addressed in other countries or cultures.

Influenza

Influenza is a viral respiratory infection that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. The virus responsible for influenza is highly contagious and can spread rapidly, resulting in widespread outbreaks and epidemics (World Health Organization, 2021). Influenza is caused by the influenza virus, which belongs to the Orthomyxoviridae family. There are three types of influenza viruses, namely A, B, and C. Influenza A and B viruses are responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks, while influenza C viruses cause mild respiratory infections. Influenza is a reportable disease, and healthcare professionals are required to report cases to the relevant public health authorities.

Causes, Symptoms, and Mode of Transmission

Influenza is caused by the influenza virus, which is transmitted from one person to another through respiratory secretions such as saliva, mucus, and nasal discharge. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, the virus can be transmitted through the air, and when another person inhales the virus, they can become infected. Additionally, influenza can be spread through direct contact with surfaces contaminated with the virus, such as doorknobs, countertops, and computer keyboards.

The symptoms of influenza typically include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, fatigue, and headache. In some cases, influenza can also cause vomiting and diarrhea, especially in children (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2021a). Symptoms usually appear 1-4 days after exposure to the virus and can last for up to a week. Influenza can cause severe complications, particularly in people with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems. These complications can include pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and ear infections.

Complications

Complications associated with influenza can range from mild to severe, depending on the individual’s age, health status, and immune system. Influenza can cause severe respiratory infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus infections. In severe cases, influenza can also cause inflammation of the heart, brain, or muscle tissues (CDC, 2021b). Pregnant women, young children, the elderly, and individuals with underlying health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease are at higher risk of developing severe complications.

Treatment

Influenza is usually treated with antiviral medications, which can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms. Antiviral medications work by blocking the virus’s ability to replicate, thus reducing the number of