Usually, when we have to give an example, we refer to what has happened in the past. The healthcare industry’s history has plenty of examples that can provide evidence about how the diseases spread and their control. Living in the 21st century, we have read about all the pandemics that have engulfed many human lives. Still, none of us expected to witness one in this modern world. Yes, we refer to the pandemic of COVID-19 that surrounded the world at the end of 2019. Initially, when we heard of this virus, our first perception was, “oh, it’s going to subside soon.” This thought soon shattered into pieces when the virus was in every corner of the world.
The doctors and nurses have helped cope with the virus, but do you ever question, how they got to know about the preventive measures? Had it not been for public health professionals, the world would not have survived the pandemic of COVID-19. Doctors and nurses shouldered the responsibility of executing treatment procedures, but those procedures entailed extensive research. The field of public health focuses on the healthcare conditions of the global population at large. The professionals in this field devise strategies, plans, and policies to prevent diseases.
How can awareness make a difference?
We are still following the safety protocols for COVID-19 in 2021, but how did we know about these procedures? If we remember hard, the World Health Organization, state heads, governments, and medical representatives were all over our screens. They pleaded and requested people to follow the safety measures. That’s how we became aware of the preventive measures, and we can see the difference awareness has made to us. Many professional degrees entail the knowledge of the health and wellness of the public. One such educational program is of allied health degree online covering diverse aspects of overall public wellness. Suppose you are enthusiastic and want to make a difference by spreading awareness about public health issues. In that case, you can do it with a relevant professional degree. Let us see how else we can eradicate public health concerns.
- Building ethical principals
One of the significant public health concerns is the infections that are prevailing around. Keeping the major pandemics aside, infections like influenza, strep throat, urinary tract infections, syphilis and many other still exists. Although we have advanced, the global population still contract these infectious diseases. The chances of infections are higher in slums or underprivileged areas where the hygiene practices are inadequate. Public health laws can support the prevention of such conditions through ethical principles. These professionals work closely with government officials. They can devise an awareness program for the public to help them ward off these diseases. They can also arrange awareness campaigns in underprivileged areas with the help of doctors and public health professionals.
Moreover, these people do not have enough resources to afford healthcare services. Organizing awareness and free medical campaigns in such areas will help them understand the benefits of good hygiene. The healthcare professionals can provide them immediate medical assistance for free if needed.
- Public immunization awareness
The human body has an immune system that fights and wards off disease. Had it not been for our immune system, we would be sick 365 days a year. We can enhance its strengths further through immunization vaccines. It is one of the most cost-effective and successful healthcare interventions. When a baby is born, the doctors and nurses are responsible for teaching the new parents about the vaccines and their benefits. These vaccinations played a vital role in preventing many diseases that had left millions of humans crippled in the past. For instance, the polio Mellitus virus is almost extinct. Many countries still have immunization drops that they provide to children up to age five.
- Availability of resources
Often we witness that people living in underdeveloped areas are not aware of any nearby healthcare facility. This lack of information can result in delayed medical checkups, worsening symptoms, and death in severe cases. Letting people know about the availability of resources with easy access can reduce the chances of disease spread. It can help them keep a check on their health. The more they become aware, the better will be the health conditions.
- Promoting healthy lifestyle
In underdeveloped communities, people are mostly unaware of healthy lifestyles. If they find junk food cheaper than healthy food, they will prefer to save some bucks. Public and community health representatives can contribute to such areas by advocating for healthy lifestyles. They can highlight the importance of exercise and a balanced diet that can help our bodies build more immunity and strength. Promoting and encouraging people to adopt healthy eating will improve the health and wellbeing, keeping diseases at bay.
Conclusion
When the world did not have enough resources or mediums to spread information, we relied on word of mouth. Awareness plays a vital role in the development of a society. An aware and educated population can find means and methods to stay healthy. On the other hand, a community with no access to education or any awareness will continue to practice unhealthy habits considering them right. With a little consistency and effort, we can prevent the spread of diseases. It needs few individuals to step in and spread awareness about a healthy lifestyle, its benefits, and primary disease prevention protocols. The World Health Organization has played a substantial role for years to improvise the conditions for public health through its awareness programs.
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