Image: 1918 flu pandemic in India
Throughout the history of Mankind, Humans have faced outbreaks of infectious diseases that have had lasting effects on societies. The worst epidemics and pandemics have ravaged nations and still are one of the biggest threats to humanity.
However, In the medical world, outbreaks have not only defined the basic tenets of modern medicine but have also pushed the healthcare community to advance care management for better prevention, immunization, and treatments; year after year!
This article will walk you through different developments in medical history, during and after the pandemic.
1918 flu pandemic in India
The 20th century’s worst pandemic – the Spanish Flu – erupted in March 1918. This outbreak took nearly 30 million lives in a span of four months globally, half of those were in India. During that period, the healthcare system in the country was unable to meet the sudden increase in demands for medical attention, hence, the pandemic lasted longer than it was anticipated.
Later, In this case, the influenza virus mutated and evolved into an endemic disease with lower and more manageable levels. Therefore several scientists estimated
“ Most pandemics end within 2 to 3 years as the virus mutates into a less virulent pathogen and the population builds up immunity.”
It was a zoonotic bacterial infection and was also referred to as the ‘Black Death’ (due to the effects of gangrene) & it took the lives of 25 million people during the 14th century. This constituted two-thirds of the population in Europe at the time. Back in the day, the only method of diagnosing the infected person was to note their symptoms and categorize them according to the severity of the infection. After which, the healthcare facilities would treat the patients with limited drugs, while hoping for their natural immunity to kick in!
But, this procedure was slow and has laid even more bodies. Moreso, poor sanitation and a large rodent population pushed the pandemic towards a worst-case scenario.
However, During the 18th century, In Argentina, Sulfurozador was introduced to deliver sulphur dioxide to eradicate the pest. Also, In different parts of the world, researchers have started with targeted chemoprophylaxis, which has played a key role in controlling the 2003 Oran outbreak.
Today, the Bubonic plague still exists in Africa, Asia and America, which is controlled by pest control, modern sanitation techniques and modified drugs with much better results.
AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)
Did you know, A study in 1985 showed an 89% increase in new AIDS cases compared with 1984, and out of the total AIDS cases to date, 59% of children and 51% of adults have died?
Over the years, treatment of HIV has evolved from high pill burden, inconvenient dosing, treatment-limiting toxicities, incomplete viral suppression & emergence of drug resistance to manageable one or two pill once-daily regimens. Also, after HIV is diagnosed, the treatment can be initiated at the early stages and continued till the control of viral replication over much of an individual’s lifespan.
Today, HIV is still a major concern in the medical world, however, an adaptation of new research and better disease management protocols has enhanced the quality of life of the infected while making it easier for medical practitioners to take care of patients.
COVID Pandemic has held back the best of humankind and their businesses while infecting 301,118,69 people globally. Especially, the healthcare facilities across the world, who were seen struggling to contain the devastation brought on by the sharp increase in the infected cases. During this time, telemedicine has facilitated patients from remote corners to connect with doctors. Bringing virtual healthcare systems to rural communities in India.
Did you know – India has seen around 300% enhancement in online consultation during 2020. Yet, a large population is still struggling for proper counselling, diagnosis and treatment. And today the country needs a care delivery system not only to enhance the doctor-patient network but also to focus on niche areas while advancing various elements of care delivery.
HArbor Says: In the medical world, the requirements of its stakeholders are ever-evolving. With every pandemic, we are even reminded of the need to bring in effective development with respect to medicine and care providing. However, the battle against pandemic won’t be won until healthcare developments and development acceptance go hand in hand.
Tech tip: Technology can only serve you if you give it a chance!