Japanese encephalitis is a type of flavivirus that is spread to a person through a mosquito bite. A flavivirus does not have a DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) structure, but instead, has an RNA (ribonucleic acid) structure. Japanese encephalitis is closely related to yellow fever, which is also known as a flavivirus. It is given this name …
Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) is a disease typically spread by ticks. Once contracted, the virus can cause swelling of the brain and spinal cord, which can result in death. TBE is a rare disease; however, there are certain areas of the world where tick-borne encephalitis is commonly found. Some countries may even require visitors to have …
Rabies is an extremely harmful viral disease that affects the brain and nervous system. The virus usually spreads to a person through the saliva of an infected animal. For example, when an infected animal bites a person, breaking their skin, then this can allow the disease to be transmitted. Another way the disease can be …
In the UK, 48% of men say they have experienced erectile dysfunction at some point in their life. So, with almost half of the men in the UK being affected by erectile problems, you would think that people wouldn’t be ashamed to talk about the topic; however, the opposite is true. It can be difficult …
A PSA test is a blood test that measures prostate-specific antigens in men. A raised or lowered PSA can indicate prostate problems, such as prostate cancer. A PSA test can help detect certain conditions early so that they can be diagnosed and treated. Before we discuss PSA tests a little further, we’re going to cover …
There are certain travel essentials that you should have when travelling abroad, particularly if the flight is long or if you’ll be staying away from home for a long period. Travel essentials help to provide comfort, ensuring good hygiene is maintained whilst visiting different countries, but there are further health benefits to packing the correct …
Many people don’t realise how vital their thyroid is, and what an important role it plays in ensuring their body functions properly. So, what exactly is your thyroid? Your thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland situated at the front of your neck. It is wrapped around your trachea (windpipe) and is responsible for regulating many …
Hepatitis B is a liver infection that is spread via bodily fluids or blood. For example, the virus can be spread by sharing items, such as razors, toothbrushes, and needles with an infected person, or from having unprotected sex, where the virus can be passed from an infected person through semen/vaginal fluids. Another way, and …
A vitamin blood profile test checks the levels of your body’s essential vitamins by analysing three biomarkers: vitamin D, vitamin B12, and folate (vitamin B9). It is important to measure these levels so that you’re able to detect any vitamin deficiencies. Any number of problems within your body and mind could be the result of …
Allergens are a substance found not only in food but also other sources, such as pollen and dust mite excretion, just to name a couple. When an allergen enters the body it can trigger an unnecessarily exaggerated response from the immune system. The immune system has this response to certain allergens because it sees the …
