History of Respiratory Illness at the U.S. Naval Academy
Abstract
Throughout history, respiratory diseases have been a frequent cause of morbidity in U.S. populations. Because of stress, crowding, and naive immune systems, military training populations are particularly prone to acute respiratory disease epidemics. An examination of the history of respiratory illness at U.S. Naval Academy revealed, in the earliest decades at the school, respiratory illness was a primary cause of both disease and mortality. With the advent of antibiotics and vaccines, most respiratory-disease mortality has been reduced. Today morbidity remains significant. Health concerns regarding respiratory diseases are heightened by emerging and re-emerging respiratory disease agents, which have increased antibiotic resistance and/or increased virulence. Enhanced surveillance and rapid diagnostic capabilities, placed in military settings, will increase knowledge of the epidemiology of many respiratory diseases. These strategies can lead to earlier treatment and prevention measures, thus halting further transmission of disease and decreasing both morbidity and mortality. During the most recent history of the Academy, acute respiratory infections have remained a primary cause of medical morbidity.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA419111
Entities
People
- Gary Gackstetter
- Gregory C. Gray
- Tammy L. Blankenship
Organizations
- Naval Health Research Center