Infection caused by a virus carried by monkeys, transmitted by mosquitoes who carry the virus from the monkey to the human. The symptoms
Hepatitis A, also called ‘infectious hepatitis’ is basically an inflammation of the liver caused by a virus A. The virus is picked up from contaminated food and water. The symptoms are a slight febrile disorder, loss of appetite and jaundice. Almost everyone recovers within about 2 months. Precautions include immunization and avoiding salads, unpeeled fruit, sharing crockery and cutlery.
Malaria is a danger in the lowland areas of Northern and Eastern Transvaal and parts of Eastern Natal reaching down to the Tugela River.
Polio or Poliomyelitis is an infection caused by a virus. It affects the motor neurone cells in the spinal cord mainly. The symptoms are fever and headache, weakness in a group of muscles, then widespread paralysis. Sometimes there is respiratory paralysis and rapid death. There is an effective vaccine taken by mouth.
Tetanus (also known as lockjaw) is a disease caused by infection with ‘clostridium tetani’ which is present in soil and in the intestines of humans and animals. Infection can enter the body via cuts after which bacteria produce a toxin affecting the motor nerve cells in the spinal cord. This is followed by convulsions and muscle spasms. The vaccine is effective and the disease can also be treated by an antitoxin and penicillin.
Typhoid or ‘enteric fever’ is caused by infection with ‘salmonella
Unpeeled fruit, badly cooked meat, ice cubes, untreated milk, ice cream
Extra salt if in hot climates.
Purify water or make sure it is clean. If you