Environment and infectious diseases

Introduction

The environment plays a powerful role in the transmission of infectious diseases, including vector-borne diseases that are a major focus of TDR research. These include malaria, dengue, Chagas disease, human African trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis, lymphatic filariasis, schistosomiasis and onchocerciasis.

Research to improve our understanding of environmental drivers of infectious disease can, in particular, lead to improved vector control measures and disease prevention. Research also needs to explore how policies of health, environment and development can best be aligned – since many vector control and disease prevention measures require action by sectors such as water, agriculture and sanitation – areas outside of the traditional domain of health services.