EMERGING INFECTIOUS DISEASES: STRATEGIES FOR PREVENTION AND CONTROL

Abstract

One of the greatest challenges to the world population health in the twenty-first century is emerging infectious diseases (EIDs). The rapid outbreak and reoccurrence of infectious diseases, including COVID-19, Ebola, Zika virus disease, avian influenza, Nipah virus, and antimicrobial-resistant infections demonstrate the growing susceptibility of human beings to new pathogens. The globalization, urbanization, climate change, ecological disturbance, population explosion and the increased human and animal interaction have enhanced the faster transmission of infectious agents across geographical lines. These issues are requiring thorough, evidence-based prevention and control measures based on the combination of epidemiological surveillance, public health preparedness, strengthening of the healthcare system, and international collaboration.