New illness going around
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Summary
10 papers analyzed
These studies suggest that emerging infectious diseases, including a new mild contagious disease in the U.S. and the new coronavirus 'WH-Human 1', pose significant threats to global health, requiring effective surveillance, rapid communication, and infection control measures.
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Emerging Infectious Diseases: A Growing Global Concern
Introduction to Emerging Infectious Diseases
Emerging infectious diseases are a significant threat to global health, characterized by the appearance of new pathogens or the re-emergence of known ones. These diseases can spread rapidly due to increased global travel and trade, posing challenges to public health systems worldwide .
Recent Examples of Emerging Diseases
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and COVID-19
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), caused by a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV), emerged in 2003, leading to over 8,000 cases and 800 deaths globally. More recently, a new coronavirus, initially identified in Wuhan, China, has caused a global pandemic known as COVID-19. This virus, closely related to SARS-like coronaviruses found in bats, underscores the ongoing risk of zoonotic spillover events.
Avian Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses
Avian influenza viruses, such as H5N1, H7N9, and H10N8, have crossed species barriers to infect humans, causing severe respiratory illnesses. These viruses, along with other emerging respiratory pathogens like MERS-CoV, highlight the need for robust surveillance systems to monitor and respond to new threats.
Factors Contributing to the Emergence of New Diseases
Globalization and Increased Mobility
The rapid movement of people, animals, and goods across borders facilitates the spread of infectious diseases. Recent examples include the spread of West Nile virus in the Americas and the introduction of monkeypox in the USA.
Environmental and Ecological Changes
Changes in the environment and human encroachment into wildlife habitats can lead to the emergence of new diseases. For instance, the Ebola virus outbreaks have been linked to human activities in forested areas, which increase contact with infected wildlife .
Antimicrobial Resistance
The rise of antibiotic-resistant pathogens, such as carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE), poses a significant challenge to treating infections. These resistant strains can spread rapidly, complicating efforts to control outbreaks.
Surveillance and Response Strategies
Importance of Early Detection
Timely identification and reporting of new infectious diseases are crucial for effective response. Surveillance systems, including web-based platforms and health data collection from medical facilities, are essential for monitoring emerging threats.
Global Collaboration
A coordinated global response is necessary to address emerging infectious diseases. This includes sharing information, resources, and expertise across borders to contain outbreaks and develop preventive measures .
Conclusion
Emerging infectious diseases continue to pose a significant threat to global health and stability. Factors such as globalization, environmental changes, and antimicrobial resistance contribute to the emergence and spread of these diseases. Effective surveillance, early detection, and international collaboration are critical to mitigating the impact of these threats and protecting public health.
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