Answer for NURS 8310 Week 1 Discussion Epidemiology and Population Health
Smallpox is a severe transmissible disease caused by the variola virus (World Health Organization, 2001). The diseases resulted in millions of mortalities prior to its eradication. The vaccine was established by Edward Jenner in 1796, it was the first successful vaccine to be developed (World Health Organization, 2001). The preparedness to handle and eradicate smallpox mandated global and national attention, which included but not limited to specific education targeted to health-care personnel, strengthening laboratory capacities, expanding expertise in the rea, and strengthening the national-level of biosafety regulations (World Health Organization, 2001).
The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is highly transmissible disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus (World Health Organization, 2021). Most individuals infected with the virus will experience mild or moderate respiratory illness and recover without receiving special treatment (World Health Organization, 2021). The epidemiology applied includes the review of the transmission, environmental contamination, risk of animal contact, immune responses following infection, prevention, and education (McIntosh, 2021). Some individuals will experience serious side effects and will require medical attention. The eradication of smallpox was contributed to widespread vaccination. These lessons should be applied to assist in the eradication of COVID-19. The population should comply and become vaccinated. The cost effectiveness is dependent on strategies implemented. Providing screening and vaccination would be more cost effective than increased hospitalization.
References:
McIntosh, K. (2021). COVID-19: Epidemiology, virology, and prevention. UptoDate. Retrieved from:
http://uptodate.com/contents/covid-19-epidemology-virology-and-prevention?H4014462337
World Health Organization. (2021). Coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Retrieved from:
