For each infectious disease there is a special procedure with vaccinations, medications and other measures – more details can be found with the respective disease. Antibiotics such as penicillin, antivirals and drugs against other pathogens should always be taken in consultation with a doctor and for a sufficiently long time, because these drugs are not arbitrarily interchangeable. If taken incorrectly, side effects and allergies can occur.
Home remedies for infectious diseases
With the increasing resistance of many bacteria to antibiotics, you should think carefully about whether you take a medicine because of every cold or whether it is not better to try to get the disease under control with home remedies such as medicinal herbs, healthy food or tea tree oil. Thus, toothpaste also helps with herpes, the masking technique with warts and cola and salt sticks with traveler’s diarrhea.
Preventive measures
Vaccination is the most important measure against the outbreak of an infectious disease. Vaccination forces the immune system to confront the pathogen and activate the body’s defenses. The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) reviews twice a year against which diseases certain population groups in Germany should be vaccinated. There are many vaccines – for example, against influenza and pneumococci, against childhood diseases, rabies and polio, as injections and oral vaccinations and for infants and the elderly.
In addition to a healthy, seasonal diet rich in vitamins – for example, sauerkraut in winter – and exercise (Kneipp), adequate hygiene in the home is an important factor in preventing disease. Molds in the garbage are just as harmful to health as excessive cleanliness.
Precautions when traveling
When traveling to North America, Africa or Asia, you should not forget the typical infections of the country. In addition to diarrhea medication, the first-aid kit should always include prophylaxis for the pathogens found in the vacation country, such as malaria.
