Related Experiment Videos
Emerging viral infections
1Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Md., USA.
Abstract:
New microbial threats to human health and survival have arisen intermittently over the centuries. The increasing global population provides greater numbers of hosts for mutational evolution and sufficient hosts to ensure maintenance of new agents; the magnitude and modes of modern travel make a larger population of susceptible people accessible and provide rapid spread of infectious agents. This milieu is particularly hospitable for viruses; therefore, in the future we can anticipate increasing numbers of emerging viral diseases. This article on microbial threats has been limited to viruses associated with neurological diseases.
Insights
Emerging viral diseases pose a growing threat due to increased global population and travel. This review focuses on viruses causing neurological diseases, anticipating future outbreaks.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Microbial threats to human health have historically emerged periodically.
- Increased global population and modern travel facilitate the evolution and spread of infectious agents.
- The current environment is particularly conducive to the emergence of viral diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review emerging microbial threats, specifically focusing on viruses.
- To discuss the factors contributing to the rise of new viral diseases.
- To highlight viruses associated with neurological diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of emerging viral diseases.
- Analysis of factors influencing viral emergence (population, travel).
- Focus on viral agents impacting the nervous system.
Main Results:
- Anticipation of increasing numbers of emerging viral diseases in the future.
- Identification of global population and travel as key facilitators.
- Specific attention to viruses causing neurological conditions.
Conclusions:
- Emerging viral diseases, particularly those affecting the nervous system, represent a significant future public health concern.
- Understanding the drivers of viral emergence is crucial for preparedness.
- Continued surveillance and research into neurotropic viruses are warranted.