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[The emergence of old and new epidemics as a consequence of human actions]

R Kurth1

  • 1Robert Koch-Institut, Berlin. kurthr@rki.de

Bundesgesundheitsblatt, Gesundheitsforschung, Gesundheitsschutz
|July 16, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Despite advances in medicine, new infectious diseases continue to emerge and spread globally. Human behavior significantly influences the emergence and spread of these evolving infectious diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Emerging infectious diseases
  • Microbiology
  • Epidemiology

Context:

  • Historically, well-known infectious diseases received less attention due to antibiotics and vaccines.
  • A perception existed that novel infectious diseases were unlikely to emerge.
  • Recent decades reveal a different reality with numerous newly defined infectious diseases.

Purpose:

  • To analyze the current state of infectious diseases.
  • To highlight the emergence of new pathogens and the geographic spread of existing ones.
  • To examine the role of human behavior in infectious disease dynamics.

Summary:

  • New viruses, bacteria, and parasites with human pathogenic potential have been identified.
  • Established microorganisms are expanding beyond their native geographic ranges.
  • Infectious agents, especially viruses, undergo genomic alterations, potentially increasing their clinical significance.

Impact:

  • Human behavior has historically shaped the nature and distribution of infectious diseases.
  • Future trends in infectious disease spread will be significantly influenced by human activities.
  • Understanding these dynamics is crucial for public health preparedness and response.

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