Background
Historically, gonorrhea has been around for thousands of years. It has been described by a variety of populations worldwide throughout history, and until recently was the most common sexually transmitted disease (now second to chlamydia). Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease impacting both males and females (currently at relatively similar rates). There is not yet a vaccine available (Hamann, 2006).
Chain of infectionInfectious Agent: The infectious agent associated with gonorrhea it the gonococcus bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Susceptible Host: Susceptibility is general and all that come into contact with the agent are susceptible. In addition to this, there is no immunity after infection, meaning that reinfection may occur. Portal of Entry: The portal of entry is through the mucous membranes of the genitals, mouth or anus. In addition to these portals of entry, babies may acquire an eye infection as a result of the disease when they are born. Means of Transmission: The transmission of gonorrhea is by direct contact with body fluid of an infected individual, nearly always through sexual activity. Portal of Exit: Body fluids of the infected area(s) are the portal of exit. Reservoir: Humans are the reservoir for gonorrhea. |
Signs & SymptomsSymptoms of Gonorrhea:
-Purulent discharge -Painful urination -Redness and swelling at infection site -Gonococcal pharyngitis -Inflammation of prostate or testes -Infertility -Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) -Septicemia -Heart disease -Gonococcal arthritis Gonorrhea has a 2-7 day incubation period after disease acquisition. However, after this time, many cases present themselves asymptomatically. In ~80% of women, symptoms may not present until the disease has infected the fallopian tubes. Men can also be asymptomatic. If left untreated and sterility has occurred it may be impossible to correct (Hamann, 2006). Fortunately there are a variety of treatments for the disease, despite the unavailability of a vaccine at present time. |
References
Hamann, B. P. (2006). Disease, identification, prevention, and control. (3 ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Humanities/Social Sciences/Languages.