Factors in the emergence of arbovirus diseases

A decade ago, increased reporting of the spread or appearance of emerging pathogens was observed by the scientific community, and emerging diseases at the time were defined. In order to evaluate the importance of this newly recognized nosological concept, comprehensive analyses were performed on different ecological aspects of germs, the epidemiology of diseases and factors of emergence. Along with human diseases which were considered as new or emerging, animal and plant diseases were indicated as well. Emerging diseases of infectious and non-infectious origin were identified and a large group of vector-borne emerging viral diseases was recognized and considered of major concern with regard to public health. This article focuses on vector-borne viral diseases and related diseases that are a potential threat to the south-eastern region of Asia. In order to provide human and technical resources and establish a system of early detection of emerging viral diseases (EVD) in Southeast Asia, Mahidol University through the Center for Vaccine Development and Orstom through the Departement Santé proposed to join their efforts and develop a research project to study EVD as a potential threat to the human population of Southeast Asia. Goals and strategies of the project are : to develop an inventory of viruses of medical importance, along with their vectors and their hosts ; to define natural transmission cycles of the virus and identify risk factors for humans and domestic animals ; to design strategies for EVD prevention ; and to provide training for scientists in the field of EVD. (Résumé d'auteur