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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
PubMed

Insights

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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