What does GWD mean in DISEASES


GWD stands for Guinea Worm Disease, which is a parasitic infection caused by the nematode Dracunculus medinensis. This disease is also known as dracunculiasis or dragon worm disease. It is spread through contaminated drinking water and is most prevalent in underdeveloped countries where access to clean water is limited. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been leading an effort to eliminate this ancient scourge, and as of 2020, the number of reported cases has been reduced by 99%.

GWD

GWD meaning in Diseases in Medical

GWD mostly used in an acronym Diseases in Category Medical that means Guinea worm disease

Shorthand: GWD,
Full Form: Guinea worm disease

For more information of "Guinea worm disease", see the section below.

» Medical » Diseases

Transmission

GWD is contracted through contaminated drinking water sources that are infected with larvae from the parasite D. medinensis. When the infected larvae are ingested, they migrate through the body and eventually take up residence in subcutaneous tissue typically on the legs or lower extremities of an individual. This causes a sharp, burning pain along with swelling near the site of infection.

Symptoms

Early symptoms of GWD include fatigue, fever, muscle aches, and headaches. Over time this can lead to more severe complications including large abscesses at the site of infection which can accompany intense itching or burning sensations due to the migration of female worms within the subcutaneous tissues.

Treatment

The only way to effectively treat GWD is with surgical removal of the larger female worms as they emerge from under the skin. While there are no drugs available to treat this condition specifically, antibiotics may be prescribed for related infections such as smallpox or chickenpox.

Prevention & Control

The best way to prevent GWD is by practicing safe hygiene habits and avoiding contact with potentially contaminated water sources. Additionally, providing access to clean drinking water sources will reduce individuals’ chances of contracting this parasitic disease.

Essential Questions and Answers on Guinea worm disease in "MEDICAL»DISEASES"

What is Guinea Worm Disease?

Guinea worm disease, also known as dracunculiasis, is an infection caused by a parasite that affects humans and dogs. This parasitic infection occurs when people drink contaminated water containing guinea worm larvae. In humans, the worm can grow up to 3 feet long before emerging through the skin. Symptoms of Guinea Worm Disease include painful swelling where the worm emerges from the skin, nausea, fever, and rash.

How is Guinea Worm Disease Transmitted?

Guinea worm disease is transmitted when a person consumes drinking water that has been contaminated with copepods (water fleas) that contain guinea worm larvae. When the infected copepods are ingested by humans or animals, they will then release immature guinea worms which can cause infection in its host.

Who Is Mostly Affected by Guinea Worm Disease?

The communities most affected by this illness are located primarily in rural areas of Africa where there is a lack of access to safe drinking water and proper hygiene measures.

What Are Some Of The Complications Of Infestation With Guinea Worms?

Infestation with guinea worms can cause complications such as secondary bacterial infections due to scratching or rupturing blisters caused by the adult worms emerging from underneath the skin, inflammation and/or abscesses due to wounds sustained from pulling on attached worms while their cutting off their demise, joint pain or even arthritis from having guinea worms near your joints and limbs for prolonged periods of time, among other dangers.

How Long Does It Take For Symptoms To Appear After Exposure To The Parasite That Causes Guinea Worm Disease?

After being exposed to the modified host organism (copepods), there may be an incubation period between 1-3 months before symptoms appear in those infected withGuinea worm disease.

Final Words:
GWD stands for Guinea Worm Disease and it's an important public health issue affect many countries around the world today. Although its prevalence has significantly decreased over time thanks to interventions like improved access to clean drinking water sources and improved hygiene practices, it's still important to be aware of how GWD spreads and what treatments are available should you become infected.

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