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Emerging and reemerging infectious diseases: a multidisciplinary perspective
D S Stephens1, E R Moxon, J Adams
1Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA.
The American Journal of the Medical Sciences
|February 24, 1998
Summary
Emerging and reemerging infectious diseases, like AIDS and drug-resistant bacteria, pose a significant global health threat. Understanding their dynamics is crucial for effective public health policy and resource allocation.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Microbiology
- Population Biology
Background:
- Predictions of infectious disease elimination have been invalidated by emerging and reemerging infections.
- Significant threats include acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), hemorrhagic fevers, antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, tuberculosis, and malaria.
- Understanding these disease dynamics is critical for reducing morbidity and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a multidisciplinary perspective on emerging and reemerging infectious diseases.
- To address key questions regarding the definition, identification, and causative factors of these infections.
- To explore multidisciplinary approaches for combating infectious disease threats.
Main Methods:
- An open forum was convened at Emory University.
- Twenty-three experts from diverse fields (infectious diseases, epidemiology, genetics, microbiology, population biology) participated.
- Discussions focused on defining, identifying, and understanding the factors driving emerging and reemerging infections.
Main Results:
- The forum highlighted the complex nature of emerging and reemerging infectious diseases.
- Key factors contributing to their emergence and reemergence were discussed.
- Multidisciplinary strategies were identified as essential for effective control.
Conclusions:
- Emerging and reemerging infectious diseases represent a persistent and evolving global health challenge.
- A comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach is necessary for effective surveillance, preparedness, and response.
- Continued research and collaboration are vital to mitigate the impact of these infections.
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