5 deadly outbreaks in the world before Ebola

The recent Ebola outbreak which has spread a great deal of panic in several countries and had claimed over 1200 lives is not the first pandemic affecting the human race. Before this, there have been other outbreaks too. We take a look at a few deadly ones which gravely affected or still affect us.

Plague

Perhaps one of the worst epidemic in the history of mankind, the bubonic plague also referred as the 'black death' swiped away over 60 per cent of Europe's population from 1346-53. Transmitted from rats to humans, it killed people within 21 days of getting infected. Approximately 25 million people died of the plague in Europe.

Swine Flu

Swine flu or the H1N1 type A influenza spread in 2009 from pigs to humans and took away thousands of lives. Though the situation is much under control now, cases are still reported of this virus attack. But with vaccination and immediate medical attention, the disease can be taken care of. The symptoms of this virus are similar to influenza.

HIV/AIDS

Even today, HIV/AIDS is one of the biggest pandemics in the world. It has claimed over 25 million lives in the last 30 years. It's estimated that over 34 million people are living with HIV. The HIV virus weakens the immune system making one susceptible to various other ailments. The treatment essentially focuses on preventing the virus from damaging the immune system and halting or delaying the progress of the infection. But there is no cure to reverse the condition as of now.

Polio

India has had a phenomenal success rate in eradicating polio which disabled and killed several in the 20^th century. The disease affected infants but timely vaccination can prevent it. As per records, no new polio cases have been reported in India but our neighbouring country Pakistan still has a high number of polio-infected people. It is high time this epidemic becomes extinct so that people can lead a healthy life.

Tuberculosis

TB is an active pandemic which still kills millions of people every year. In 2012, it took the lives of nearly 1.3 million people globally. According to WHO, 2 billion people are infected with tuberculosis around the world. It attacks one's respiratory system and other organs. It is an infectious disease and spreads through coughing, sneezing, etc. but high levels of hygiene can prevent tuberculosis. Since it is still prevalent in the world, one should take adequate steps to prevent getting the disease.

Photo source Getty images

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