Emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases in Iran

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases Epidemiology
• Public Health
• Microbiology

Background:

• Infectious diseases are a major cause of global morbidity and mortality.
• Factors like demographic shifts, ecological changes, and international travel contribute to the rise of emerging and reemerging infectious diseases (EIDs and RIDs).
• Iran's unique geography, climate variability, and regional instability exacerbate the EID and RID burden, particularly zoonotic and drug-resistant diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of significant bacterial, viral, and fungal EIDs and RIDs in Iran.
• To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of these diseases within Iran.
• To highlight the public health significance of zoonotic and drug-resistant EIDs and RIDs in the region.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review article.
• It synthesizes existing data on EIDs and RIDs in Iran.
• Epidemiological aspects of significant pathogens are examined.

Main Results:

• Emerging and reemerging infectious diseases pose a significant public health challenge in Iran.
• Zoonotic and drug-resistant infections are identified as particularly important threats.
• The review details the epidemiological landscape of various bacterial, viral, and fungal EIDs and RIDs relevant to Iran.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the epidemiology of EIDs and RIDs in Iran is crucial for effective public health strategies.
• Addressing zoonotic and drug-resistant diseases requires targeted interventions.
• Continued surveillance and research are necessary to combat the evolving threat of infectious diseases in the region.