CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES

Abstract

This chapter explores the intricate relationship between climate change and infectious diseases, examining the various mechanisms through which climate change influences the distribution, prevalence, and transmission. Over half of all infectious diseases are susceptible to climate change, affecting 3 billion people worldwide. The nexus of climate hazards, exposure, and vulnerability creates cascading risk pathways, with events such as hurricanes and floods disrupting infrastructure and fostering disease outbreaks. Vectorborne, foodborne, waterborne, and respiratory diseases are exceptionally sensitive to climate changes with altered temperature and precipitation patterns affecting pathogen transmission, leading to the expansion of disease ranges, seasonality, and shifting transmission dynamics. Disruptions to ecosystems also lead to increased contact between wildlife and human populations, heightening the risk of zoonotic disease spillover events. Addressing these challenges demands the strengthening of healthcare systems, surveillance, and infrastructure resilience. Global warming will continue to alter the landscape of infectious diseases, with expansion of transmission seasons and geographic ranges of disease, increased risk of infections, and introduction of emerging infections to naïve populations. By understanding climate change and these complex connections, a multifaceted approach to adaptation efforts, mitigation, and effective public health strategies can be devised to confront an evolving disease burden in a changing world.