Top Emerging Diseases to Watch Out for in 2022
The world has been gripped by a global pandemic, the likes of which we’ve never seen before. With COVID-19 still wreaking havoc around the globe, it’s easy to forget that there are many other emerging diseases that we should be keeping an eye on. Here are the top emerging diseases to watch out for in 2022.
Alzheimer’s disease
This is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s characterized by a progressive decline in cognitive function, including memory loss, difficulty with language, disorientation and changes in mood and behavior. There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, and the only available treatments are aimed at managing symptoms. However, with the global aging population, Alzheimer’s disease is set to become one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the coming years.
Drug-resistant tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs. Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a form of TB that is resistant to the standard first-line drugs used to treat the infection. MDR-TB is a growing problem around the world, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. It’s estimated that around 600,000 people develop MDR-TB each year, and without proper treatment, the disease can be fatal.
Zika virus
The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can cause severe fetal brain defects and other congenital abnormalities. While there have been no major outbreaks of Zika in recent years, the risk of an outbreak is still very real. The virus is primarily spread by the Aedes mosquito, which is found in many countries around the world. In addition, there is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for Zika virus, meaning that prevention is the best approach.
Antimicrobial resistance
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health threat that occurs when microorganisms develop resistance to antimicrobial drugs, making infections more difficult to treat. AMR is a complex issue that involves the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, poor infection prevention and control practices, and a lack of investment in the development of new antimicrobial drugs. If left unchecked, AMR could lead to a post-antibiotic era in which common infections become untreatable.
Conclusion
The world faces many emerging diseases, and the above are just some of the most pressing ones to watch out for in 2022. It’s crucial that we invest in research and development to tackle these diseases, as well as focusing on prevention measures. By working together, we can help ensure that the world is prepared to face emerging diseases both now and in the future.
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