Global Health, Climate Change, and Emerging Infectious Diseases

Global Health, Climate Change, and Emerging Infectious Diseases explains how climate change contributes to the emergence and reemergence of infectious diseases, and to shifts in disease patterns and distribution. These changes disproportionately burden vulnerable populations—particularly in low-income countries, marginalized communities, and climate-sensitive regions—exacerbating existing health disparities and widening inequities in global health outcomes. This interconnectedness compels healthcare professionals to understand and address these dynamics, with special attention to the heightened risks faced by disadvantaged groups. The effects of climate change on human health are explained within the text, along with recommendations for equitable adaptation strategies, risk management efforts, and mitigation approaches that can be led by clinicians, researchers, and policymakers to reduce disparities and promote health equity. The book begins with the scientific basis of climate change, its impact on ecosystems, and subsequent health implications. It then delves into the links between climate change, vector-borne, waterborne, and zoonotic infections. Mitigation and adaptation strategies to bridge the gap between climate science and public health are also discussed in detail. This text provides a comprehensive overview of climate change's multi-dimensional impact on global health. It emphasizes the need for inclusive interdisciplinary collaboration, engaging health professionals, policymakers, and environmental scientists. Evidence-based insights and practical solutions are outlined, enabling readers to understand, predict, and mitigate health risks posed by climate change and emerging infectious diseases while advancing health equity.