Page 154 - Biology Form Two

Biology for Secondary Schools

Infections and diseases of the followed by other illnesses such as cold
respiratory system in humans or flu.

Task 6.7 Signs and symptoms of pneumonia

Search the library and internet sources on (i) Fever
FOR ONLINE READING ONLY
various for information from infections (ii) Chills
and diseases of the respiratory system (iii) Shortness of breath associated with

in humans. Write short notes on your pain in the lower ribs
findings. (iv) Increased mucus production

(v) Cough
Several airborne infections and diseases
affect the human respiratory system. The Prevention and control of pneumonia
common ones are pneumonia, bronchitis, (i) Staying warm
asthma, lung cancer, tuberculosis, and (ii) Avoiding overcrowded areas
Corona virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).
(iii) Avoiding cold food or drinks. (Hot
Most of the airborne infections result drinks are more preferred as they
from close contact with an infected loosen secretions).
person. When such a person breathes (iv) Getting treatment as early as
out, coughs, or sneezes, the pathogens possible.

are released into the air. Hence, a nearby
person can be infected. Sometimes, Bronchitis
This is an inflammation of the bronchial
droplets may contaminate items such tubes, which are airways that carry air
as clothes and surfaces used by the sick to and from the lungs. Bronchitis can
person.
be acute or chronic.
Airborne infections can be controlled by
isolation of the infected person; proper Acute bronchitis
This is usually caused by a viral
disposal of infectious secretions, such infection and occasionally by bacterial
as sputum; living in a well-ventilated infections. Typically, it lasts for a few
house; and avoiding overcrowding.
weeks following cold or respiratory

Pneumonia infection.
Pneumonia is an inflammation of the Signs and symptoms of acute bronchitis
lungs. It is caused by bacteria, viruses, (i) Pain in the chest
fungi or by inhaling chemical toxins (ii) Rapid breathing
or irritants. Pneumonia is normally
(iii) Wheezing

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