Infectious Diseases

Climate Change, Urbanization, and Infectious Disease Spread

Climate change and rapid urbanization are increasingly influencing the emergence and spread of infectious diseases. Rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events alter the habitats of vectors like mosquitoes and ticks, expanding the range of diseases such as malaria, dengue, chikungunya, and Lyme disease. Floods and droughts can compromise water quality, sanitation, and food supply, increasing risks of waterborne and foodborne illnesses. Urbanization, especially in low-income regions, often results in overcrowded living conditions with limited access to healthcare and clean resources, creating hotspots for disease transmission. Deforestation and human encroachment into wildlife habitats also increase the risk of zoonotic spill overs. Mitigating these risks requires interdisciplinary action across public health, urban planning, environmental protection, and policy development. Strengthening infrastructure, improving surveillance, and promoting climate-resilient health systems are key strategies. Understanding and addressing the links between environmental change and disease is crucial for future health security.