Springer - Reemergence of Established Pathogens in the 21st Century

As we navigate the 21st century, the landscape of global health is changing. This volume from the Emerging Infectious Diseases of the 21st Century series addresses the urgent warnings issued at the end of the last century regarding the rising importance of infectious diseases. While new threats like AIDS pose significant risks to populations worldwide, there is an additional, growing concern: the re-emergence of established pathogens. These are microbes that were once reliably treatable but are now returning as major threats. Because infectious diseases contribute significantly to global illness and mortality, they represent a primary concern for healthcare providers and planners. This text examines how much of this problem is man-made, arising from various factors that affect how diseases spread and persist. It provides necessary context for medical professionals and public health experts who must prepare for the evolving challenges of modern infectious disease management.