What are some common Viral Diseases?

Viral diseases cause different typesof illnessess and infections. Most people suffer a viral disease only once in their lives, but there are some that you can catch repeatedly. Take note that viruses can cause minor illnesses when compared to more serious bacterial infections. Common viral diseases include:

Did you know only less than 30% of adults can name more than one viral disease? Crazy right? I’m here to help bridge the gap in viral disease knowledge so I’ve compiled this list of the most common ones and their symptoms.

Introduction

Viral diseases are caused by viruses, tiny organisms that can only be seen with a microscope. There are approximately 100 different types of viruses. Many of them don’t cause us any harm and we get rid of them naturally without even knowing it. Viruses will mostly live in our bodies for around 24 hours. The most common viral diseases include colds, flu and the common cold sore.

Common Viral Diseases

Viral diseases are illnesses caused by viruses. As opposed to bacteria, which cause bacterial infections, viruses can’t be seen with the naked eye and must be identified through laboratory testing.

Common Viral Diseases Include:

-Flu (influenza)

-Mononucleosis (mono)

-Colds, coughs, and sore throats

-Chickenpox

-Measles (rubeola)

-HIV/AIDS

-Herpes simplex type 1 and 2(cold sores)

-Hepatitis C

-Genital warts

-Zika fever and West Nile Virus.

Some viruses remain dormant in your body for years before they cause symptoms. For example, you may have had chickenpox as a child but not had any symptoms until years later when it comes back as shingles.

While these illnesses can be unpleasant and even painful, they are treatable with rest and over-the-counter medications; most people recover from them within a week or two.