Emerging infectious diseases are infections that have recently appeared within a population or those whose incidence or geographic range is rapidly increasing. They can be caused by previously undetected or unknown infectious agents, known pathogens that have spread to new populations, or by the re-emergence of diseases once considered controlled.
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Emerging infectious diseases can arise due to various factors including ecological changes, human behavior, and increased global travel.
Zoonotic diseases, which are transmitted from animals to humans, are a significant category of emerging infectious diseases.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) play critical roles in monitoring and responding to emerging infectious diseases globally.
Antibiotic resistance is a major concern in the context of emerging infectious diseases as it can make infections harder to treat.
Historical examples include HIV/AIDS in the early 1980s and more recent outbreaks like SARS-CoV-2 causing COVID-19.
Review Questions
What factors contribute to the emergence of new infectious diseases?
Why are zoonotic diseases important in the study of emerging infectious diseases?
How do global organizations like WHO and CDC manage emerging infectious diseases?