About Epidemic
A disease outbreak or pandemic is characterized by the rapid spread of a pathogen from one person to another resulting in significant increase in morbidity and mortality. It usually results from a change in the usual pattern of transmission and can be caused by many factors, including deterioration or loss of immunity, removal of immune individuals by death, the amplification of the disease through highly connected, high-density areas, and zoonotic diseases.
Epidemics have long shaped human societies. They often exploit the fault lines of our societies, e.g. the vulnerability to infectious diseases of marginalized groups or the vulnerability of communities to disasters, which can lead to disruption and displacement. In addition, societal stresses such as economic difficulties, conflict and insecurity can create conditions that make it easier for pathogens to spread.
Investigations during epidemics focus on the identification of the source of the outbreak and its mode of spread. They may also evaluate the effectiveness of control measures, and provide a platform for scientific education and dissemination in times of crisis.
The capacity of an epidemic response depends on the ability of institutions (public health authorities, hospitals, and emergency response bodies) to guarantee surveillance, traceability, and the proper management of any ongoing infectious process. This requires a strong and sustainable system of preparedness to identify, report, and respond to outbreaks in order to minimize their impact on public health and society. This requires the presence of a global network that allows the exchange and diffusion of information about ID threats, as well as the presence of national or local plans and structures for early detection, prediction, and response.
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