This document discusses emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. It begins with trends in infectious diseases, then defines emerging and re-emerging diseases. Factors that contribute to emergence include changes in the agent, host, and environment. Examples are provided of diseases that have emerged or re-emerged recently, including SARS, avian influenza, hepatitis C, and antibiotic resistance. The response from public health is also mentioned.
emerging and re-emerging vector borne diseasesAnil kumar
this presentation in about emerging and re-emerging vector borne diseases and their spatial spread with reference to time, surveillance, monitoring and management program and other difficulties and suggestions for program
Emerging and reemerging infectious diseasesarijitkundu88
Various emerging and reemerging diseases. Factors contributing to the emergence of infectious diseases. Antibiotic resistance. The global response to control them. Laboratories network in surveillance.
Module 1.1 An overview of emerging and re emerging infectious diseasesAdaora Anyichie - Odis
This module helps to understand the global trends of emerging & re-emerging infections and chronic diseases, identify the threats of diseases and develop desirable attitude and skill in planning to go for new treatment regimens and public health programs that substantially reduce and even prevent the spread of infections and promotion of public health
Presentation made by Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, at the meeting "Health in Action reforming the Greek National Health System to Improve Citizens’ Health", on 5 March 2014, Athens, Greece.
Difference between a pandemic, an epidemic, endemic, and an outbreakBarryAllen149
The distinction between the concepts “pandemic,” “epidemic,” and “endemic” is typically dimmed, also by medical specialists. Because the definition of each term is liquid, and it varies as diseases become more or less prevalent over time. In conversation, maybe this is less important to know the exact definitions but to understand the overall condition of public health news and responses you should know the concepts.
Ebola virus disease (EVD; also Ebola hemorrhagic fever, or EHF), or simply Ebola, is a disease of humans and other primates caused by ebolaviruses. Ebola virus disease is a serious illness that originated in Africa, where there is currently an outbreak
Overview of recent outbreaks of H5N8-High Pathogen Avian Influenza in Europe...Harm Kiezebrink
Updated outbreak assessment on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza: Europe, America and the Middle East. By the DEFRA, Veterinary & Science Policy Advice Team - International Disease Monitoring.
emerging and re-emerging vector borne diseasesAnil kumar
this presentation in about emerging and re-emerging vector borne diseases and their spatial spread with reference to time, surveillance, monitoring and management program and other difficulties and suggestions for program
Emerging and reemerging infectious diseasesarijitkundu88
Various emerging and reemerging diseases. Factors contributing to the emergence of infectious diseases. Antibiotic resistance. The global response to control them. Laboratories network in surveillance.
Module 1.1 An overview of emerging and re emerging infectious diseasesAdaora Anyichie - Odis
This module helps to understand the global trends of emerging & re-emerging infections and chronic diseases, identify the threats of diseases and develop desirable attitude and skill in planning to go for new treatment regimens and public health programs that substantially reduce and even prevent the spread of infections and promotion of public health
Presentation made by Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, at the meeting "Health in Action reforming the Greek National Health System to Improve Citizens’ Health", on 5 March 2014, Athens, Greece.
Difference between a pandemic, an epidemic, endemic, and an outbreakBarryAllen149
The distinction between the concepts “pandemic,” “epidemic,” and “endemic” is typically dimmed, also by medical specialists. Because the definition of each term is liquid, and it varies as diseases become more or less prevalent over time. In conversation, maybe this is less important to know the exact definitions but to understand the overall condition of public health news and responses you should know the concepts.
Ebola virus disease (EVD; also Ebola hemorrhagic fever, or EHF), or simply Ebola, is a disease of humans and other primates caused by ebolaviruses. Ebola virus disease is a serious illness that originated in Africa, where there is currently an outbreak
Overview of recent outbreaks of H5N8-High Pathogen Avian Influenza in Europe...Harm Kiezebrink
Updated outbreak assessment on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza: Europe, America and the Middle East. By the DEFRA, Veterinary & Science Policy Advice Team - International Disease Monitoring.
What is a propolis vaporizer and why does it work? The healthy effects of propolis when diffused from a vaporizer and the proven effects of propolis against viruses, influenza, mold and air pollution reduction.
Global Health Inequalities: Focus on Asia-PacificRenzo Guinto
Lecture given during the pre-APRM workshop on Social Determinants of Health and Global Health Equity, September 11, 2012, Hospital Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur
The Inclusive Prosperity Commission is a major policy project of the Chifley Research Centre, the think tank of
the Australian Labor Party. Since its launch in 2014, the Commission has been exploring the threat to Australia’s future economic growth presented
by growing inequality – and new policies to respond.
At the heart of the matter is a simple premise: economies grow faster when everyone shares in the growth. More and more evidence now shows that rising inequality is a threat to economic growth, while only broadly shared prosperity can be sustained in the long-term. Inclusive prosperity means embracing the economic opportunities of our time and finding ways to ensure they serve the vast majority of society.
The Commission’s task has been to develop a new economic policy framework to guide Australia beyond the global financial crisis and the peak of the mining boom.
Co-chaired by Wayne Swan MP and Michael Cooney (Executive Director of the Chifley Research Centre), the Commission’s membership includes Cameron Clyne, David Hetherington, Dave Oliver, Peter Whiteford, Rebecca Huntley, Stephen Koukoulas, Tony Nicholson and Verity Firth. Amanda Robbins of Equity Economics has led the Commission’s staff.
This report will sit alongside new analysis from the IMF, World Bank and influential publications such as Thomas Piketty’s ‘Capital in the Twenty-First Century’ which point to the need for action against rising inequality.
The Chifley Research Centre is grateful for the contribution of the Center for American Progress as a project partner.
Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious DiseasesFarooq Khan
Overview of literature around the following emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases relevant to Canadian Emergency Physicians in terms of their epidemiology, recognition, and treatment:
- Community-acquired MRSA
- Non-vaccine serotype Pneumococcus
- Fusobacterium Necrophorum
LIVING WITH THE EARTHCHAPTER 7EMERGING DISEASES.docxcroysierkathey
LIVING WITH THE EARTH
CHAPTER 7
EMERGING DISEASES
Esherichia coli on EMB plate
Objectives for this chapter
A student reading this chapter will be able to:
1. Differentiate the emerging infectious diseases in the United States and those occurring worldwide.
2. List and recognize the 6 major reasons associated with the emergence of infectious diseases.
3. Explain the likely reasons for the emergence of specific infectious diseases.
Objectives for this chapter
A student reading this chapter will be able to:
4. Identify, list, and explain the etiological agents, the epidemiology, and the disease characteristics of the major emerging infectious diseases including: influenza, hanta virus, dengue fever, ebola, AIDs, Cryptosporidiosis, Malaria, Lyme disease, Tuberculosis, Streptococcal infections, and E. coli infections.
Objectives for this chapter
A student reading this chapter will be able to:
5.Recognize and explain the practical approaches to limiting the emergence of infectious diseases.
EMERGING DISEASES
INTRODUCTION
Infectious diseases continue to be the foremost cause of death worldwide.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a 58 percent rise in deaths from infectious diseases since 1980.
Emerging Diseases in the United States
Cryptosporidium
AIDS
Escherichia coli
Hanta Virus
Lyme Disease
Group A Strep
Emerging Diseases Worldwide
What is an Emerging Infectious Disease
The term "emerging infectious diseases" refers to diseases of infectious origin whose incidence in humans has either increased within the past two decades or threatens to increase in the near future.
REASONS FOR THE EMERGENCE OF INFECTIOUS DISEASE
There are a number of specific explanations responsible for disease emergence that can be identified in most all cases (Table 7-1a-d).
Table 7-1a
Viral
Viral diseases that have been identified since 1973
1977 Ebola, Marburg
Origin undetermined. (Importation of monkeys associated with outbreaks in these primates in Europe and the United States)
1980 HTLV Influenza (pandemic)
Pig-duck agriculture thought to contribute to reassortment of avian and mammalian influenza viruses
1983 HIV
Transmission by intimate contact as in sexual transmission, contaminated hypodermic needles, transfusions, organ transplants. Contributing condition that spread the disease include war or civil conflict, urban decay, migration to cities and travel
1989 Hepatitis C
Transmission in infected blood such as by transfusions, contaminated hypodermic needles, and sexual transmission
1993 Hantaviruses
Increased contact with rodent hosts because of ecological or environmental changes
Adapted from Morse.24
Table 7-1b
Viral Diseases that have re-emerged
Argentine, Bolivian hemorrhagic fever
Agricutural changes that promote growth of rodents
Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (cattle)
Alterations in the rendering of meat products
Dengue, dengue hemorrhagic fever
...
Uganda, a hotspot for neglected vector borne zoonoses.Presented at COVAB Make...Joseph Kungu
Tremendous success in control of vector borne infections like Trypanasomiasis was scored in the previous decades (20th century).
This later led to laxity resulting in prioritization of prevention and control of other infections.
Re-emergence of vector borne zoonoses has occurred, due to change in global trends (Population growth, uncontroled movement, climate).
Richard's entangled aventures in wonderlandRichard Gill
Since the loophole-free Bell experiments of 2020 and the Nobel prizes in physics of 2022, critics of Bell's work have retreated to the fortress of super-determinism. Now, super-determinism is a derogatory word - it just means "determinism". Palmer, Hance and Hossenfelder argue that quantum mechanics and determinism are not incompatible, using a sophisticated mathematical construction based on a subtle thinning of allowed states and measurements in quantum mechanics, such that what is left appears to make Bell's argument fail, without altering the empirical predictions of quantum mechanics. I think however that it is a smoke screen, and the slogan "lost in math" comes to my mind. I will discuss some other recent disproofs of Bell's theorem using the language of causality based on causal graphs. Causal thinking is also central to law and justice. I will mention surprising connections to my work on serial killer nurse cases, in particular the Dutch case of Lucia de Berk and the current UK case of Lucy Letby.
This pdf is about the Schizophrenia.
For more details visit on YouTube; @SELF-EXPLANATORY;
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAiarMZDNhe1A3Rnpr_WkzA/videos
Thanks...!
Cancer cell metabolism: special Reference to Lactate PathwayAADYARAJPANDEY1
Normal Cell Metabolism:
Cellular respiration describes the series of steps that cells use to break down sugar and other chemicals to get the energy we need to function.
Energy is stored in the bonds of glucose and when glucose is broken down, much of that energy is released.
Cell utilize energy in the form of ATP.
The first step of respiration is called glycolysis. In a series of steps, glycolysis breaks glucose into two smaller molecules - a chemical called pyruvate. A small amount of ATP is formed during this process.
Most healthy cells continue the breakdown in a second process, called the Kreb's cycle. The Kreb's cycle allows cells to “burn” the pyruvates made in glycolysis to get more ATP.
The last step in the breakdown of glucose is called oxidative phosphorylation (Ox-Phos).
It takes place in specialized cell structures called mitochondria. This process produces a large amount of ATP. Importantly, cells need oxygen to complete oxidative phosphorylation.
If a cell completes only glycolysis, only 2 molecules of ATP are made per glucose. However, if the cell completes the entire respiration process (glycolysis - Kreb's - oxidative phosphorylation), about 36 molecules of ATP are created, giving it much more energy to use.
IN CANCER CELL:
Unlike healthy cells that "burn" the entire molecule of sugar to capture a large amount of energy as ATP, cancer cells are wasteful.
Cancer cells only partially break down sugar molecules. They overuse the first step of respiration, glycolysis. They frequently do not complete the second step, oxidative phosphorylation.
This results in only 2 molecules of ATP per each glucose molecule instead of the 36 or so ATPs healthy cells gain. As a result, cancer cells need to use a lot more sugar molecules to get enough energy to survive.
Unlike healthy cells that "burn" the entire molecule of sugar to capture a large amount of energy as ATP, cancer cells are wasteful.
Cancer cells only partially break down sugar molecules. They overuse the first step of respiration, glycolysis. They frequently do not complete the second step, oxidative phosphorylation.
This results in only 2 molecules of ATP per each glucose molecule instead of the 36 or so ATPs healthy cells gain. As a result, cancer cells need to use a lot more sugar molecules to get enough energy to survive.
introduction to WARBERG PHENOMENA:
WARBURG EFFECT Usually, cancer cells are highly glycolytic (glucose addiction) and take up more glucose than do normal cells from outside.
Otto Heinrich Warburg (; 8 October 1883 – 1 August 1970) In 1931 was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology for his "discovery of the nature and mode of action of the respiratory enzyme.
WARNBURG EFFECT : cancer cells under aerobic (well-oxygenated) conditions to metabolize glucose to lactate (aerobic glycolysis) is known as the Warburg effect. Warburg made the observation that tumor slices consume glucose and secrete lactate at a higher rate than normal tissues.
Introduction:
RNA interference (RNAi) or Post-Transcriptional Gene Silencing (PTGS) is an important biological process for modulating eukaryotic gene expression.
It is highly conserved process of posttranscriptional gene silencing by which double stranded RNA (dsRNA) causes sequence-specific degradation of mRNA sequences.
dsRNA-induced gene silencing (RNAi) is reported in a wide range of eukaryotes ranging from worms, insects, mammals and plants.
This process mediates resistance to both endogenous parasitic and exogenous pathogenic nucleic acids, and regulates the expression of protein-coding genes.
What are small ncRNAs?
micro RNA (miRNA)
short interfering RNA (siRNA)
Properties of small non-coding RNA:
Involved in silencing mRNA transcripts.
Called “small” because they are usually only about 21-24 nucleotides long.
Synthesized by first cutting up longer precursor sequences (like the 61nt one that Lee discovered).
Silence an mRNA by base pairing with some sequence on the mRNA.
Discovery of siRNA?
The first small RNA:
In 1993 Rosalind Lee (Victor Ambros lab) was studying a non- coding gene in C. elegans, lin-4, that was involved in silencing of another gene, lin-14, at the appropriate time in the
development of the worm C. elegans.
Two small transcripts of lin-4 (22nt and 61nt) were found to be complementary to a sequence in the 3' UTR of lin-14.
Because lin-4 encoded no protein, she deduced that it must be these transcripts that are causing the silencing by RNA-RNA interactions.
Types of RNAi ( non coding RNA)
MiRNA
Length (23-25 nt)
Trans acting
Binds with target MRNA in mismatch
Translation inhibition
Si RNA
Length 21 nt.
Cis acting
Bind with target Mrna in perfect complementary sequence
Piwi-RNA
Length ; 25 to 36 nt.
Expressed in Germ Cells
Regulates trnasposomes activity
MECHANISM OF RNAI:
First the double-stranded RNA teams up with a protein complex named Dicer, which cuts the long RNA into short pieces.
Then another protein complex called RISC (RNA-induced silencing complex) discards one of the two RNA strands.
The RISC-docked, single-stranded RNA then pairs with the homologous mRNA and destroys it.
THE RISC COMPLEX:
RISC is large(>500kD) RNA multi- protein Binding complex which triggers MRNA degradation in response to MRNA
Unwinding of double stranded Si RNA by ATP independent Helicase
Active component of RISC is Ago proteins( ENDONUCLEASE) which cleave target MRNA.
DICER: endonuclease (RNase Family III)
Argonaute: Central Component of the RNA-Induced Silencing Complex (RISC)
One strand of the dsRNA produced by Dicer is retained in the RISC complex in association with Argonaute
ARGONAUTE PROTEIN :
1.PAZ(PIWI/Argonaute/ Zwille)- Recognition of target MRNA
2.PIWI (p-element induced wimpy Testis)- breaks Phosphodiester bond of mRNA.)RNAse H activity.
MiRNA:
The Double-stranded RNAs are naturally produced in eukaryotic cells during development, and they have a key role in regulating gene expression .
Earliest Galaxies in the JADES Origins Field: Luminosity Function and Cosmic ...Sérgio Sacani
We characterize the earliest galaxy population in the JADES Origins Field (JOF), the deepest
imaging field observed with JWST. We make use of the ancillary Hubble optical images (5 filters
spanning 0.4−0.9µm) and novel JWST images with 14 filters spanning 0.8−5µm, including 7 mediumband filters, and reaching total exposure times of up to 46 hours per filter. We combine all our data
at > 2.3µm to construct an ultradeep image, reaching as deep as ≈ 31.4 AB mag in the stack and
30.3-31.0 AB mag (5σ, r = 0.1” circular aperture) in individual filters. We measure photometric
redshifts and use robust selection criteria to identify a sample of eight galaxy candidates at redshifts
z = 11.5 − 15. These objects show compact half-light radii of R1/2 ∼ 50 − 200pc, stellar masses of
M⋆ ∼ 107−108M⊙, and star-formation rates of SFR ∼ 0.1−1 M⊙ yr−1
. Our search finds no candidates
at 15 < z < 20, placing upper limits at these redshifts. We develop a forward modeling approach to
infer the properties of the evolving luminosity function without binning in redshift or luminosity that
marginalizes over the photometric redshift uncertainty of our candidate galaxies and incorporates the
impact of non-detections. We find a z = 12 luminosity function in good agreement with prior results,
and that the luminosity function normalization and UV luminosity density decline by a factor of ∼ 2.5
from z = 12 to z = 14. We discuss the possible implications of our results in the context of theoretical
models for evolution of the dark matter halo mass function.
Professional air quality monitoring systems provide immediate, on-site data for analysis, compliance, and decision-making.
Monitor common gases, weather parameters, particulates.
Multi-source connectivity as the driver of solar wind variability in the heli...Sérgio Sacani
The ambient solar wind that flls the heliosphere originates from multiple
sources in the solar corona and is highly structured. It is often described
as high-speed, relatively homogeneous, plasma streams from coronal
holes and slow-speed, highly variable, streams whose source regions are
under debate. A key goal of ESA/NASA’s Solar Orbiter mission is to identify
solar wind sources and understand what drives the complexity seen in the
heliosphere. By combining magnetic feld modelling and spectroscopic
techniques with high-resolution observations and measurements, we show
that the solar wind variability detected in situ by Solar Orbiter in March
2022 is driven by spatio-temporal changes in the magnetic connectivity to
multiple sources in the solar atmosphere. The magnetic feld footpoints
connected to the spacecraft moved from the boundaries of a coronal hole
to one active region (12961) and then across to another region (12957). This
is refected in the in situ measurements, which show the transition from fast
to highly Alfvénic then to slow solar wind that is disrupted by the arrival of
a coronal mass ejection. Our results describe solar wind variability at 0.5 au
but are applicable to near-Earth observatories.
The increased availability of biomedical data, particularly in the public domain, offers the opportunity to better understand human health and to develop effective therapeutics for a wide range of unmet medical needs. However, data scientists remain stymied by the fact that data remain hard to find and to productively reuse because data and their metadata i) are wholly inaccessible, ii) are in non-standard or incompatible representations, iii) do not conform to community standards, and iv) have unclear or highly restricted terms and conditions that preclude legitimate reuse. These limitations require a rethink on data can be made machine and AI-ready - the key motivation behind the FAIR Guiding Principles. Concurrently, while recent efforts have explored the use of deep learning to fuse disparate data into predictive models for a wide range of biomedical applications, these models often fail even when the correct answer is already known, and fail to explain individual predictions in terms that data scientists can appreciate. These limitations suggest that new methods to produce practical artificial intelligence are still needed.
In this talk, I will discuss our work in (1) building an integrative knowledge infrastructure to prepare FAIR and "AI-ready" data and services along with (2) neurosymbolic AI methods to improve the quality of predictions and to generate plausible explanations. Attention is given to standards, platforms, and methods to wrangle knowledge into simple, but effective semantic and latent representations, and to make these available into standards-compliant and discoverable interfaces that can be used in model building, validation, and explanation. Our work, and those of others in the field, creates a baseline for building trustworthy and easy to deploy AI models in biomedicine.
Bio
Dr. Michel Dumontier is the Distinguished Professor of Data Science at Maastricht University, founder and executive director of the Institute of Data Science, and co-founder of the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable) data principles. His research explores socio-technological approaches for responsible discovery science, which includes collaborative multi-modal knowledge graphs, privacy-preserving distributed data mining, and AI methods for drug discovery and personalized medicine. His work is supported through the Dutch National Research Agenda, the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research, Horizon Europe, the European Open Science Cloud, the US National Institutes of Health, and a Marie-Curie Innovative Training Network. He is the editor-in-chief for the journal Data Science and is internationally recognized for his contributions in bioinformatics, biomedical informatics, and semantic technologies including ontologies and linked data.
(May 29th, 2024) Advancements in Intravital Microscopy- Insights for Preclini...Scintica Instrumentation
Intravital microscopy (IVM) is a powerful tool utilized to study cellular behavior over time and space in vivo. Much of our understanding of cell biology has been accomplished using various in vitro and ex vivo methods; however, these studies do not necessarily reflect the natural dynamics of biological processes. Unlike traditional cell culture or fixed tissue imaging, IVM allows for the ultra-fast high-resolution imaging of cellular processes over time and space and were studied in its natural environment. Real-time visualization of biological processes in the context of an intact organism helps maintain physiological relevance and provide insights into the progression of disease, response to treatments or developmental processes.
In this webinar we give an overview of advanced applications of the IVM system in preclinical research. IVIM technology is a provider of all-in-one intravital microscopy systems and solutions optimized for in vivo imaging of live animal models at sub-micron resolution. The system’s unique features and user-friendly software enables researchers to probe fast dynamic biological processes such as immune cell tracking, cell-cell interaction as well as vascularization and tumor metastasis with exceptional detail. This webinar will also give an overview of IVM being utilized in drug development, offering a view into the intricate interaction between drugs/nanoparticles and tissues in vivo and allows for the evaluation of therapeutic intervention in a variety of tissues and organs. This interdisciplinary collaboration continues to drive the advancements of novel therapeutic strategies.
2. Outline Of Presentation
Infectious diseases- trends
Definition of emerging & re-emerging diseases
Factors contributing to emergence
Examples
Public health response
3. Infectious Disease- Trends
Receded in Western countries 20th
century
Urban sanitation, improved housing, personal
hygiene, antisepsis (the practice of using
antiseptics) & vaccination
Antibiotics further suppressed morbidity &
mortality
Note: Morbidity refers to the unhealthy state of an individual,
while mortality refers to the state of being mortal.
Both concepts can be applied at the individual level or across a population.
For example, a morbidity rate looks at the incidence of a disease across
a population and/or geographic location during a single year.
Mortality rate is the rate of death in a population.
4. ??
AIDSAIDS
Avian InfluenzaAvian Influenza
EbolaEbola
MarburgMarburg
CholeraCholera
Rift Valley FeverRift Valley Fever
TyphoidTyphoid
TuberculosisTuberculosis
LeptospirosisLeptospirosis
MalariaMalaria
ChikungunyaChikungunya
DengueDengue
JEJE
Antimicrobial resistanceAntimicrobial resistance
UPUP
Guinea worm Smallpox
Yaws
Poliomyelitis
Measles
Leprosy
Neonatal tetanus
DOWNDOWN
Infectious Diseases: A World in TransitionInfectious Diseases: A World in Transition
5. Definition
Emerging infectious disease
Emerging infectious diseases are diseases of infectious origin whose
incidence in humans has increased within the recent past or threatens
to increase in the near future.
These also include those infections that appear in new geographic
areas or increase abruptly.
The new infectious diseases and those which are re-emerging after a
period of quiescence are also grouped under emerging infectious
diseases.
OR
Newly identified & previously unknown infectious agents that cause public
health problems either locally or internationally
6. Definition
Re-emerging infectious disease
Infectious agents that have been known for some
time, had fallen to such low levels that they were
no longer considered public health problems &
are now showing upward trends in incidence or
prevalence worldwide
7. Factors Contributing To
Emergence
1. AGENT
Evolution of pathogenic infectious agents
(microbial adaptation & change)
Development of resistance to drugs
Resistance of vectors to pesticides
8. Factors Contributing To
Emergence
2. HOST
Human demographic change (inhabiting new
areas)
Human behaviour (sexual & drug use)
Human susceptibility to infection
(Immunosuppression)
Poverty & social inequality
Changes in lifestyle that promote unhealthy and
risk prone behavior patterns affecting food
habits and sexual practices.
9. Factors Contributing To
Emergence
3. ENVIRONMENT
Climate & changing ecosystems
Economic development & Land use (urbanization,
deforestation)
Technology & industry (food processing & handling)
Environmental sanitation characterized by unsafe water
supply , improper disposal of solid and liquid waste, poor
hygienic practices and congested living conditions all
contribute to emergence of infection
10. CONTD.
International travel & commerce
Breakdown of public health measure
(war, unrest, overcrowding)
Deterioration in surveillance systems
(lack of political will)
11. Transmission of Infectious Agent
from
1. Animals to Humans
>2/3rd
emerging infections originate from animals-
wild & domestic
Emerging Influenza infections in Humans
associated with Geese, Chickens & Pigs
Animal displacement in search of food after
deforestation/ climate change (Lassa fever)
Humans themselves penetrate/ modify
unpopulated regions- come closer to animal
reservoirs/ vectors (Yellow fever, Malaria)
12. 2. Climate & Environmental
Changes
Deforestation forces animals into closer human
contact- increased possibility for agents to breach
species barrier between animals & humans
El Nino (This refers to times when waters of the tropical eastern Pacific are
colder than normal and trade winds blow more strongly than usual)- Triggers
natural disasters & related outbreaks of infectious
diseases (Malaria, Cholera)
Global warming- spread of Malaria, Dengue,
Leishmaniasis, Filariasis
13. 3. Poverty, Neglect & Weakening of
Health Infrastructure
Poor populations- major reservoir &
source of continued transmission
Poverty- Malnutrition- Severe infectious
disease cycle
Lack of funding, Poor prioritization of
health funds, Misplaced in curative rather
than preventive infrastructure, Failure to
develop adequate health delivery systems
14. 4. Uncontrolled Urbanization &
Population Displacement
Growth of densely populated cities- substandard
housing, unsafe water, poor sanitation,
overcrowding, indoor air pollution (>10%
preventable ill health)
Problem of refugees & displaced persons
Diarrhoeal & Intestinal parasitic diseases, ARI
Lyme disease (B. burgdorferi)- Changes in
ecology, increasing deer populations, suburban
migration of population
15. 5. Human Behaviour
Unsafe sexual practices (HIV, Gonorrhoea,
Syphilis)
Changes in agricultural & food production
patterns- food-borne infectious agents (E. coli)
Increased international travel (Influenza)
Outdoor activity
16. 6. Antimicrobial Drug Resistance
Causes:
• Wrong prescribing practices
• non-adherence by patients
• Counterfeit drugs
• Use of anti-infective drugs in animals &
plants
17. CONTD.
• Loss of effectiveness:
• Community-acquired (TB,
Pneumococcal) &
Hospital-acquired (Enterococcal,
Staphylococcal
Antiviral (HIV), Antiprotozoal (Malaria),
Antifungal
18. Antimicrobial Drug Resistance
Consequences
Prolonged hospital admissions
Higher death rates from infections
Requires more expensive, more toxic drugs
Higher health care costs
20. Examples of recent emerging
diseases
Source: NATURE; Vol 430; July 2004;
www.nature.com/nature
21. •Examples of Emerging
Infectious Diseases
Hepatitis C- First identified in 1989
In mid 1990s estimated global prevalence
3%
Hepatitis B- Identified several decades
earlier
Upward trend in all countries
Prevalence >90% in high-risk population
22. CONTD.
Zoonoses- 1,415 microbes are infectious for
human
Of these, 868 (61%) considered zoonotic
(A zoonotic disease is a disease that can be passed between
animals and humans. Zoonotic diseases can be caused by viruses,
bacteria, parasites, and fungi.)
70% of newly recognized pathogens are
zoonoses (A zoonosis is any disease or infection that is naturally
transmissible from vertebrate animals to humans. Animals thus play an
essential role in maintaining zoonotic infections in nature. Zoonoses may be
bacterial, viral, or parasitic, or may involve unconventional agents.)
24. SARS: The First Emerging Infectious
Disease Of The 21st Century
SARS Cases
19 February to 5 July 2003
China (5326)
Singapore (206)
Hong Kong (1755)
Viet Nam (63)
Europe:
10 countries (38)
Thailand (9)
Brazil (3)
Malaysia (5)
South Africa (
Canada (243)
USA (72)
Colombia (1)
Kuwait (1)
South Africa (1)
Korea Rep. (3)
Macao (1)
Philippines (14)
Indonesia (2)
Mongolia (9)
India (3)
Australia (5)
New Zealand (1)
Taiwan (698)
Mongolia (9)
Russian Fed. (1)
Total: 8,439 cases, 812 deaths,
30 countries in 7-8 months
Source: www.who.int.csr/sars
No infectious disease has spread so fast and far as SARS did in 2003
25. Lesson learnt from SARS
An infectious disease in one country is a
threat to all
Important role of air travel in
international spread
Tremendous negative economic impact
on trade, travel and tourism, estimated
loss of $ 30 to $150 billion
26. CONTD.
High level commitment is crucial for
rapid containment
WHO can play a critical role in
catalyzing international cooperation and
support
Global partnerships & rapid sharing of
data/information enhances
preparedness and response
27. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza
(H5N1)
Since Nov 2003, avian influenza H5N1 in birds
affected 60 countries across Asia, Europe,
Middle-East & Africa
>220 million birds killed by AI virus or culled to
prevent further spread
Majority of human H5N1 infection due to direct
contact with birds infected with virus
28. Avian Influenza/bird flu:
A Viral disease of Domestic and Wild
Birds characterized by the full range of
responses from almost no signs of the
disease to very high mortality; caused
by several subtypes of the type A strain
of the influenza virus.
The incubation period is also highly
variable, and ranges from a few days to
a week (3 to 7 days).
29. Aetiology of Avian Influenza
Influenzavirus A genus of the Orthomyxoviridae
family.
They are enveloped, negative stranded RNA
viruses.
Influenza A viruses can be divided into 15
Haemagglutinin (H) antigens. 9 Neuraminidase (N)
antigens.
Extreme antigenic variability brought about by
genetic reassortment in host cells.
30. Aetiology of Avian Influenza
NOTE:
Negative strand RNA viruses have a unique mechanism of replication.
Their genome is a single strand RNA that has to be transcribed as soon
as the virus enters the host in order to carry out viral replication.
As a result, a viral-specific RNA polymerase is packaged in the virion
and is ready for transcription after virus entry.
This novel replication mechanism dictates the assembly and RNA
synthesis of negative strand RNA viruses.
In recent years, many discoveries have been made with regard to the
entry, replication and assembly of this class of viruses.
31. Influenza A virus host range
is polygenic
α2-3Gal
α2-6Gal
α2-3Gal
α2-6Gal
α2-3Gal
α2-6Gal
(Perez, 2006)
34. Avian Influenza
Peri-domestic species
Occasional isolations
of avian influenza virus
from starlings and
house sparrows (in
contact with infected
poultry)
Replication of some
avian influenza virus in
these species
(experimental)
35. 2006 Avian Influenza
Natural Reservoirs of
Influenza A Viruses
Wild aquatic birds
Majority are represented
by two Orders:
1. Anseriformes (ducks,
geese, and swans)
36. 2006 Avian Influenza
Natural Reservoirs of
Influenza A Viruses
2.Charadriiformes (gulls,
terns, and shorebirds)
Usually show no
clinical disease
37. Avian Influenza
How are these viruses transmitted
and maintained in these species?
Transmission: Fecal/Oral route
Heavy fecal shedding by infected ducks
Long term persistence in water
Isolation of AIVs from surface water
Maintenance: Bird to bird
Persistence in environment
38. 2006
Clinical Signs
Incubation period 3-5 days
Severe depression
Decreased food and water
consumption
Drastic decline in egg production
Many birds affected
Dehydration
Huddling
Subcutaneous swelling of the
head and neck area
Nasal and oral cavity discharge
•Ruffled feathers
•Swollen, cyanotic (blue) combs
and wattles
•Conjunctivitis with respiratory
signs
39. Note swollen head, and discharges.
Wattle is cyanotic and necrotic.
Huddling
Ruffled
feathers
Respiratory Symptoms
40. Classification
Influenza viruses are
subtyped according to
surface glycoproteins:
hemagglutininhemagglutinin (HA) and
neuraminidaseneuraminidase (NA)
Currently, there are 16
hemagglutinins (H1 to H16) and 9
neuraminidases (N1 to N9)
144 possible sub-types
HemagglutininHemagglutinin attaches the virus
to the surface of the host cell so
the virus can replicate
NeuraminidaseNeuraminidase lets the newly
replicated viruses out of the cell to
infect more cells
http://micro.magnet.fsu.edu/cells/viruses/influenzavirus.html
41. What are the types of Avian Influenza in
domestic poultry?
Low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI)
mild or no clinical signs
low to moderate mortality
However, the low pathogeniclow pathogenic H5 and H7H5 and H7 strains arestrains are
capable of mutating under field conditions into highlycapable of mutating under field conditions into highly
pathogenic strainspathogenic strains
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI)
sudden onset
severe clinical signs
high mortality
43. How long can AI virus survive?
AI virus is shed in feces
for 7 to 14 days after
infection
AI virus can survive in
manure for up to 105
days especially with high
moisture and low
temperature
1 gram of contaminated
manure can infect 1
million birds
1 gram of manure will
cover the surface of a
dime
44. What is the incubation period?
Usually 3 to 7
days
Depends on:
strain of virus
dose of inoculum
age and immune
status of bird
management and
environmental
factors
45. How does AI virus spread?
Exposure of poultry to migratory
waterfowl (any bird that spends
much of its life on or around a
river or lake)
Exposure of commercial poultry to
AI-infected backyard, gamebird, or
hobby flocks
46. How does AI virus spread?
Contact with AI-infected live bird markets
Dr. S. Trock Dr. S. Trock
47. How does AI virus spread?
Bird to bird contact (through feces)
Aerosol droplets
48. How does AI virus spread?
Manure, equipment, vehicles, egg flats, crates,
contaminated shoes and clothing
49. How does AI virus spread?
•Wildlife vectors/scavengers
Photos courtesy of G. Malone
University of Delaware
50. How do humans get infected with H7N9?
Mainly through direct contact
with infected poultry
When people sell or
slaughter and consume
infected birds
Exposure during slaughter,
defeathering, butchering,
and preparation of poultry
for cooking
So far, evidence suggests
that the source of H7N9 virus
is poultry and live bird
markets and the most likely
route of transmission from
poultry to humans
www.terradaily.com
www.cnn.com
51. Why should we be concerned about
H7N9?
H7N9 has not been previously reported in
humans
No background or pre-existing immunity
H7N9 is more easily transmissible from
poultry to humans than H5N1
However, unlike H5N1 infections, poultry
infected with H7N9 appear healthy
52. How do AI viruses change or mutate?
Antigenic DriftAntigenic Drift
Occurs through small changes in the virus that happen
continually over time
Produces new virus strains that may not be recognized by
antibodies to earlier influenza strains
Antigenic ShiftAntigenic Shift
An abrupt, major change in influenza A viruses, resulting in
a new influenza virus that can infect humans (one that has
not been seen in humans for many years)
53. Mutation and Reassortment 1
Reassortant
HUMAN- AVIAN
virus
AVIAN
virus
1. Mutation
2. Reassortment
HUMAN
virus
54. Mutation and Reassortment 2
Reassortant
HUMAN- AVIAN
virus
AVIAN
virus
1. Mutation
2. Reassortment
HUMAN
virus
55. Can H7N9 spread from person to person?
The spread of infection in
birds increases the
opportunities for direct
infection of humans
Humans concurrently infected
with human and avian
influenza strains could serve
as a “mixing vesselmixing vessel” for the
emergence of a novel subtype
with sufficient humans genes
that can be transmitted from
person to person
However, the virus has notthe virus has not
yet developed the ability toyet developed the ability to
pass easily from human topass easily from human to
humanhuman
Avian flu Human flu
Novel flu subtype
58. Avian Influenza Infections in Humans
1997: Hong Kong
(HPAI H5N1)
Infected chickens and
humans
18 sick (6 died)
Spread primarily from
birds to humans
Person-to-person
infection noted but rare
1.5 million chickens
destroyed
yaleglobal online
59. Avian Influenza Infections in Humans
2003: China and Hong Kong (HPAI
H5N1)
Occurred among members of a Hong Kong family that had
traveled to China
1 person recovered, another died
Another family member in China died
Origin unknown
60. Avian Influenza Infections in Humans
2013: China (H7N9)
126 cases (24 deaths) as of 29 April 2013
ecdc.europa.eu
61. Pandemics are rare but deadlyPandemics are rare but deadly
• 1918-19 Spanish Flu (H1N1)
• 20-50 million infected worldwide
• >500,000 deaths U.S.
• 1957-58 Asian Flu (H2N2)
• 70,000 deaths U.S.
• 1968-69 Hong Kong Flu (H3N2)
• 50,000 deaths U.S.
• 2009-2010 Swine Flu (H1N1)
• 60 million infected worldwide
• 18,000 deaths
62. Can another pandemic happen again?
Only when three
conditions have been
met:
1. a new influenza virus
subtype emerges
2. it infects humans,
causing serious illness
3.3. it spreads easily andit spreads easily and
sustainably amongsustainably among
humans*humans*
**has not yet occurred withhas not yet occurred with
H7N9 or H5N1H7N9 or H5N1
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Spanish_flu_victims_burial_Nort
h_River_Labrador_1918.JPG
63. What can we do to prevent AI in humans?
Practice normal hygienic
precautions
Wash hands with soap and
water for 15-20 seconds
Cover your mouth when you
cough or sneeze
Get vaccinated for
seasonal flu
Stay home and rest if you
have the flu
Practice “social
distancing” if there is a flu
outbreak
Avoid live bird markets
66. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza
(H5N1)
What is the name of the bird flu?
There are 16 different avian flu types.
The H5N1 strain is the one that causes the
most concern, because it is the most virulent;
the deadliest.
Fortunately, humans do not become easily
infected with the H5N1 virus strain.
However, some highly pathogenic strains have
caused severe respiratory diseases in humans
67. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza
(H5N1)
Where was Bird Flu First Discovered?
Influenza A/H5N1, a severe strain of bird flu,
was first found to infect humans during poultry
outbreaks in Hong Kong in 1997.
Eighteen humans were infected and six died.
A mass culling of all poultry in Hong
Kong may have prevented a human A/H5N1
pandemic (global epidemic) at that time.
68. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza
(H5N1)
What does the H and N stand for in flu?
Influenza A viruses are divided into subtypes
based on two proteins on the surface of the
virus: the hemagglutinin (H) and the
neuraminidase (N).
There are 18 different hemagglutinin subtypes
and 11 different neuraminidase subtypes.
69. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza
(H5N1)
Neuraminidase enzymes are glycoside
hydrolase enzymes (EC 3.2.1.18) that cleave
the glycosidic linkages of neuraminic acids.
Viral neuraminidase is a type
of neuraminidase found on the surface of
influenza viruses that enables the virus to be
released from the host cell.
Neuraminidases are enzymes that cleave
sialic acid groups from glycoproteins and are
required for influenza virus replication.
70.
71. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
Novel Swine origin Influenza A
(H1N1)
Swine flu causes respiratory disease in pigs –
high level of illness, low death rates
Pigs can get infected by human, avian and
swine influenza virus
Occasional human swine infection reported
In US from December 2005 to February 2009,
12 cases of human infection with swine flu
reported
72. Swine Flu
Influenza A (H1N1)
March 18 2009 – ILI outbreak reported in
Mexico
April 15th
CDC identifies H1N1 (swine flu)
April 25th
WHO declares public health
emergency
April 27th
Pandemic alert raised to phase 4
April 29th
Pandemic alert raised to phase 5
NOTE- A pandemic is the worldwide spread of a
new disease
73. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
Influenza A (H1N1)
By May 5th
more than 1000 cases confirmed in 21
countries
Screening at airports for flu like symptoms
(especially passengers coming from affected area)
Schools closed in many states in USA
May 16th
India reports first confirmed case
Stockpiling of antiviral drugs and preparations to
make a new effective vaccine
76. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
Examples of Re-Emerging
Infectious Diseases
Diphtheria- Early 1990s epidemic in Eastern
Europe(1980- 1% cases; 1994- 90% cases)
Cholera- 100% increase worldwide in 1998
(new strain eltor, 0139)
Human Plague- India (1994) after 15-30
years absence. Dengue/ DHF- Over past 40
years, 20-fold increase to nearly 0.5 million
(between 1990-98)
78. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
Bioterrorism
Possible deliberate release of infectious
agents by dissident individuals or terrorist
groups
Biological agents are attractive instruments
of terror- easy to produce, mass casualties,
difficult to detect, widespread panic & civil
disruption
79. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
CONTD.
Highest potential- B. anthracis, C.
botulinum toxin, F. tularensis, Y. pestis,
Variola virus, Viral haemorrhagic fever
viruses
Likeliest route- aerosol dissemination
80. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
Key Tasks in Dealing with Emerging
Diseases
Surveillance at national, regional, global level
epidemiological,
laboratory
ecological
anthropological
Investigation and early control measures
Implement prevention measures
behavioural, political, environmental
Monitoring, evaluation
81. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
National surveillance:
current situation
Independent vertical control
programmes
Surveillance gaps for important
diseases
Limited capacity in field epidemiology,
laboratory diagnostic testing, rapid field
investigations
Inappropriate case definitions
82. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
CONTD.
Delays in reporting, poor analysis of
data and information at all levels
No feedback to periphery
Insufficient preparedness to control
epidemics
No evaluation
83. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
Solutions
Public health surveillance & response systems
Rapidly detect unusual, unexpected, unexplained
disease patterns
Track & exchange information in real time
Response effort that can quickly become global
Contain transmission swiftly & decisively
84. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
GOARN
Global Outbreak Alert & Response Network
Coordinated by WHO
Mechanism for combating international
disease outbreaks
Ensure rapid deployment of technical
assistance, contribute to long-term epidemic
preparedness & capacity building
85. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
Sharing Outbreak-related InformationSharing Outbreak-related Information
• with Public Health Professionalswith Public Health Professionals
• with Publicwith Public
• with Public Health Professionalswith Public Health Professionals
• with Publicwith Public
86. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
Solutions
Internet-based information technologies
Improve disease reporting
Facilitate emergency communications &
Dissemination of information
Human Genome Project
Role of human genetics in disease susceptibility,
progression & host response
87. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
Solutions
Microbial genetics
Methods for disease detection, control & preventio
Improved diagnostic techniques & new vaccines
Geographic Imaging Systems
Monitor environmental changes that influence
disease emergence & transmission
89. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
What skills are needed?
Multiple expertise neededMultiple expertise needed !
Infectious
diseases
Epidemio-
logy
Public
Health
International
field
experience
Information
management
Laboratory
Telecom. &
Informatics
90. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
Global Disease Intelligence:
A world on the alert
CollectionCollection
VerificationVerification DistributionDistribution
ResponseResponse
91. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
The Best Defense (Multi-
factorial)
Coordinated, well-prepared, well-
equipped PH systems
Partnerships- clinicians, laboritarians
& PH agencies
Improved methods for detection &
surveillance
92. Dr. KANUPRIYA CHATURVEDI
CONTD.
Effective preventive & therapeutic
technologies
Strengthened response capacity
Political commitment & adequate
resources to address underlying socio-
economic factors
International collaboration &
communication
Editor's Notes
Infectious diseases keep emerging and re-emerging . It is there fore imperative that while efforts for control of well established communicable disease must continue relentlessly, a regular vigil must be maintained on the behavior of emerging and re- emerging diseases.
Increasing virulence of microbes like Influenza A virus, which exhibits frequent changes in its antigenic structure giving rise to new strains with endemic and pandemic propensities.
Host factors contributing to emergence are:
Mass migration of people provoked by natural and man made disaster with concomitant rehabilitation of displaced people in temporary human settlements under unhygienic conditions.
Uninhibited and reckless industrialization leading to migration of labor population from rural to urban areas in unhygienic squatter settlements
International travel as a result of trade and tourism contributing to global dispersion of disease agents, disease reservoirs and vectors
Changes in lifestyle that promote unhealthy and risk prone behavior patterns affecting food habits and sexual practices.
Declining immunity of as a result of HIV infection, which make him vulnerable to a host of infections.
Environmental sanitation characterized by unsafe water supply , improper disposal of solid and liquid waste, poor hygienic practices and congested living conditions all contribute to emergence of infection.
Climatic changes resulting from global warming inducing increased surface water evaporation , greater rainfall changes in the direction of bird migration and changes in the habitat of disease vectors are also contributory factors.
SARS was first recognized at the end of
February 2003 in Hanoi, Viet Nam.
case, a middle-aged man business man who has traveled
extensively in South-East Asia before becoming unwell,
was admitted to hospital in Hanoi on 26 February 2003
with a high fever, dry cough, myalgia and mild sore throat.
Over the following 4 days he developed symptoms of adult
respiratory distress syndrome, requiring ventilator support,
and severe thrombocytopenia. Despite intensive
therapy he died on 13 March after being transferred to an
isolation facility in Hong Kong SAR.
On the basis of data from the SARS foci in Hanoi and Hong
Kong SAR, the incubation period has been estimated to be
2.7 days, but usually 3.5 days. Attack rates of &gt;56% among
health care workers caring for patients with SARS is consistent
in both the Hong Kong and Hanoi foci.
Avian influenza (“bird flu”) is an infectious disease of birds caused by type A strains of the influenza virus. The infection can cause a wide spectrum of symptoms in birds, ranging from mild illness, which may pass unnoticed, to a rapidly fatal disease that can cause severe epidemics.
Avian influenza viruses do not normally infect humans. However, there have been instances of certain highly pathogenic strains causing severe respiratory disease in humans. In most cases, the people infected had been in close contact with infected poultry or with objects contaminated by their faeces. Nevertheless, there is concern that the virus could mutate to become more easily transmissible between humans, raising the possibility of an influenza pandemic.
big part of surveillance is made in wild aquatic birds
-aquatic birds are natural reservoir.
This is the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza virus that is currently of major concern to domestic bird industry. There is currently no H5N1 infection in domestic poultry at this time although this virus has been cultured from migratory water fowl.
Ja The ones most likely to be seen in contact with poultry
Dennis Senne
ja
Avian influenza (“bird flu”) is an infectious disease of birds caused by type A strains of the influenza virus. The infection can cause a wide spectrum of symptoms in birds, ranging from mild illness, which may pass unnoticed, to a rapidly fatal disease that can cause severe epidemics.
Avian influenza viruses do not normally infect humans. However, there have been instances of certain highly pathogenic strains causing severe respiratory disease in humans. In most cases, the people infected had been in close contact with infected poultry or with objects contaminated by their faeces. Nevertheless, there is concern that the virus could mutate to become more easily transmissible between humans, raising the possibility of an influenza pandemic.
Avian influenza (“bird flu”) is an infectious disease of birds caused by type A strains of the influenza virus. The infection can cause a wide spectrum of symptoms in birds, ranging from mild illness, which may pass unnoticed, to a rapidly fatal disease that can cause severe epidemics.
Avian influenza viruses do not normally infect humans. However, there have been instances of certain highly pathogenic strains causing severe respiratory disease in humans. In most cases, the people infected had been in close contact with infected poultry or with objects contaminated by their faeces. Nevertheless, there is concern that the virus could mutate to become more easily transmissible between humans, raising the possibility of an influenza pandemic.
Avian influenza (“bird flu”) is an infectious disease of birds caused by type A strains of the influenza virus. The infection can cause a wide spectrum of symptoms in birds, ranging from mild illness, which may pass unnoticed, to a rapidly fatal disease that can cause severe epidemics.
Avian influenza viruses do not normally infect humans. However, there have been instances of certain highly pathogenic strains causing severe respiratory disease in humans. In most cases, the people infected had been in close contact with infected poultry or with objects contaminated by their faeces. Nevertheless, there is concern that the virus could mutate to become more easily transmissible between humans, raising the possibility of an influenza pandemic.
Avian influenza (“bird flu”) is an infectious disease of birds caused by type A strains of the influenza virus. The infection can cause a wide spectrum of symptoms in birds, ranging from mild illness, which may pass unnoticed, to a rapidly fatal disease that can cause severe epidemics.
Avian influenza viruses do not normally infect humans. However, there have been instances of certain highly pathogenic strains causing severe respiratory disease in humans. In most cases, the people infected had been in close contact with infected poultry or with objects contaminated by their faeces. Nevertheless, there is concern that the virus could mutate to become more easily transmissible between humans, raising the possibility of an influenza pandemic.
In India, plague reemerged in August 1994, when it was detected in the Beed district of Maharashtra. This was followed by pneumonic plague in Surat in Gujarat state, resulting in over 50 deaths and inducing a mass exodus of people. Eventually plague was reported from 12 Indian states.
The Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) is a technical collaboration of existing institutions and networks who pool human and technical resources for the rapid identification, confirmation and response to outbreaks of international importance. The Network provides an operational framework to link this expertise and skill to keep the international community constantly alert to the threat of outbreaks and ready to respond.
The Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network contributes towards global health security by:
combating the international spread of outbreaks
ensuring that appropriate technical assistance reaches affected states rapidly
contributing to long-term epidemic preparedness and capacity building.