The
elimination of smallpox two decades ago led many to hope that infectious diseases would
soon cease to be a problem. Vaccines against polio, measles, and diphtheria have all
proven to be useful in greatly reducing disease rates. However since 1973, almost 30 new
disease-causing microbes have been identified, including hepatitis C virus and HIV.
Meanwhile, other pathogens, such as tuberculosis, have rebounded and shown
drug-resistance. Tuberculosis is now the top infectious disease killer of adults
worldwide. HIV promises to reduce the life expectancy in a number of countries, including
Zimbabwe. Researchers blame the rising levels of these diseases on a number of factors,
including increased travel and climate changes that facilitate the spread of pathogens.
Vaccines continue to play a key role in the ability to control infectious diseases, but
researchers note that multi-disciplinary prevention approaches need to be instituted in
order to increase success. (Source: E Magazine)