Population growth rate and age distribution data available. Life expectancy estimates based on modeling due to incomplete mortality data
US healthcare primarily provided by private sector, funded by public programs and insurance. Only developed country without universal healthcare system. Employer-sponsored insurance most common coverage source (150 million people). Government funds 64% of healthcare spending through Medicare, Medicaid, and other programs
Edward Jenner discovered smallpox immunity through cowpox vaccination in 1796. Variolation, a natural inoculation method, was practiced before modern vaccines. Lady Mary Wortley Montagu introduced variolation to England in 1721
Antivirals treat viral infections and are part of the antimicrobials class. Most antivirals are harmless to the host and target specific viruses. Natural virucides are produced by plants like eucalyptus and Australian tea trees
Chronic conditions persist for more than three months. 63% of worldwide deaths are from chronic conditions. 40% of US adults have at least two chronic conditions. Chronic diseases cause 38 million deaths annually
MERS is a coronavirus-related respiratory illness first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Typical symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Mortality rate is approximately 35%, though mild cases may be missed. Disease is more severe in people with weakened immune systems