Re-emerging infectious diseases: Are we the reason?
With the development of science, several infectious diseases were showing a declining trend globally. However, some of these diseases like malaria, tuberculosis, cholera, pertussis, influenza, pneumococcal disease, and gonorrhoea are again increasing in different corners of the world, giving them an identity of re-emerging infectious diseases (REIDs).
Re-emerging diseases are diseases that reappear after they have been on a significant decline. They have an impact on global mortality and morbidity as well as the economy. Though REIDs can be caused due to natural processes like the appearance of new strains of known disease- causing organisms and climate change, the contribution of human behaviour cannot be denied. A study published in Microorganisms attempt to discuss interconnectedness between REIDs and human behaviour.
Different human behaviour activities like expanding human population, population ageing, urbanization, globalization, conflicts, migration, wildlife trade and consumption, and industrial livestock production have also contributed to REIDs. Breakdown in public health measures like sanitation, vaccination programs, etc. has also contributed to the re-emergence of diseases that were once under control.
Irrational antimicrobial use and the development of resistance in humans and livestock have contributed to the increase in REIDs. Infections due to several multi-drug resistant organisms, such as vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Candida auris, are related to antibiotic overuse and misuse. It has allowed a return of diseases that once were treatable and controllable.
Many of these human behaviours are modifiable and actions taken at individual and institutional levels will impact the re-emergence of these infections. Newer epidemiological surveillance tools, the evolution of rapid and easy-to-use diagnostics, and the prompt development and evaluation of novel therapeutics will greatly facilitate a future response.
References:
1. Spernovasilis N, Tsiodras S, Poulakou G. Emerging and Re-Emerging Infectious Diseases: Humankinds Companions and Competitors. Microorganisms. 2022 Jan 4;10(1):98; https://doi.org/10.3390%2Fmicroorganisms10010098; PMID: 35056547; PMCID: PMC8780145.
2. Media outlet: John Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions- and-diseases/emerging-infectious-diseases;
(Edited by Pravin Prasad and Suraj Bhattarai for GLOHMED News and Views).